Rio Ferdinand has lifted the lid on how desperate Manchester United were to sign Karim Benzema, with Michael Owen revealing he was signed instead as a Sir Alex Ferguson's Plan B.
United went head-to-head with a Lyon side featuring the French striker back in 2008, earning a 2-1 aggregate Round of 16 win over the French side.
Benzema was on target in the first leg as the two teams played out a 1-1 draw - and Ferdinand has recalled the instant impression made by the Real Madrid forward that evening.
“Sir Alex Ferguson wanted to sign him after that game," said the former United defender speaking on BT Sport ahead of Chelsea's second leg with Los Blancos.
He added: "Sir Alex was speaking to him in the tunnel after the game and I remember some of their officials came and ushered him away. Sir Alex Ferguson wanted him.
"I played that game and, straight away, saw his movement. Beautiful footballer."
The Red Devils missed out on signing Benzema, who ended up joining Madrid the following year for £30million.
This missed opportunity saw Ferguson instead opt for Owen, who was informed by the Scot that his move only came about due to the Frenchman rejecting a move to Old Trafford.
“I only went to United because he chose Real Madrid," Owen told BT Sport.
“The first time I got a call off Sir Alex, he was dead honest. He said, ‘We’re trying to sign Benzema. If we don’t get him, you’re second choice’."
Despite this honest admission by the legendary United boss, Owen remained full of praise for the Madrid attacker.
“It’s his variety of finishes that I like. He can use either foot and he’s brilliant in the air. It’s his clever movement that interests me."
