One member of BBC trident set for new Real Madrid deal

Karim Benzema is set to be rewarded with a new Real Madrid deal regardless of whether the Europeans champions sign Kylian Mbappe this summer, reports Marca.

Madrid have reportedly launched a stunning £161m bid for the France international having been heavily linked with a move for his signature all summer.

The Monaco teenager has established himself as one of the most sought-after talents in Europe after a dazzling break through campaign and now seems destined to leave the Ligue 1 champions.

Zinedine Zidane's side have already offloaded Alvaro Morata and James Rodriguez to accommodate for Mbappe's potential arrival, but there have been suggestions a member of the current BBC trident will also have to make way.

Given Mbappe is a striker, the obvious candidate would be Benzema but he is a firm favourite of both Zidane and club president Florentino Perez.

The former France international has two years remaining on his existing deal but an extension is thought to be imminent as the club look to extend the 29-year-old's stay at the club until 2021 or 2022.

Cristiano Ronaldo has climbed down from his stance earlier in the summer and is now set to remain with the Spanish champions, which means Gareth Bale looks an expendable force from their trident.

The Wales international has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United for the fourth summer in succession after enduring an injury-hit year last season, although Jose Mourinho's side are weary of dealing for marquee players given how previous cases have ended.

Benzema also struggled with injuries last term but played a key part in the club's history-making defence of their Champions League title. However, the Frenchman finished with his lowest goal tally in the league last term (11) since his maiden campaign back in 2009/10 (8).

In the last five La Liga campaigns Benzema has been subbed off at least 20 more times than any other player (90).