Benzema proud of Real interest, but job at Lyon not done

French forward Karim Benzema runs after the ball during the Euro 2008 qualifying match with Lithuania at the Beaujoire stadium in Nantes, October 2007. Benzema insists his work with the six-time French champions is still in progress, amid reports of huge interest in his talents from Real Madrid.

France and Lyon striker Karim Benzema insists his work with the six-time French champions is still in progress, amid reports of huge interest in his talents from Real Madrid.

Benzema, born in France to Algerian parents, is the current leading scorer in the French league and has also been a driving force in attack for the club in the Champions League.

Real and a number of other top European clubs have taken notice. Benzema even made front page headlines in Spanish sports daily Marca two weeks ago.

But the flattered 19-year-old, linked to Lyon until 2012, believes he has to prove himself with Lyon before moving up a grade.

"It's good to hear that a club like Real has shown some interest in me. But it's all media speculation. I believe I've still got a lot of work to do," said Benzema, who has scored 11 goals in 14 French league matches this season.

"Real is a club which, along with Barcelona and AC Milan, I have huge respect for. Who wouldn't dream of a move to either one?

"But right now I'm with Lyon until 2012. Afterwards, we'll see."