Sporting plot Karim Benzema signing with the aid of investors [Correio da Manha]

The front page of Portuguese tabloid Correio da Manha caught many people’s attention today in Iberia, as it claimed that Sporting are targeting a swoop for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.

The front page gave some teeth to their story, revealing that investors will help finance the bid from Sporting.

That’s an important piece of information, as it’s widely known that Sporting are cash-strapped, so outside help would be needed to fund any Benzema bid.

Correio da Manha revealed that group of investors have committed to helping Sporting pay part of the French forward’s eight million a year euro salary.

Moreover, they claim a bid could come in January, provided Real Madrid are open to selling the 27-year-old.

The crux of the story rests on the belief that Los Blancos may axe Benzema following the outcome of the Mathieu Valbuena sextape blackmail scandal currently playing out in the courts in France.

It’s also worth pointing out that Correio da Manha carries a mixed reputation, and many are questioning the credibility of the rumour.

Sporting are currently five points clear of Porto at the top of the Portuguese league.