Soccer:Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier has confirmed his interest in Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.
Houllier, who is poised to sign former Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires in the next two to three days, says Villa would jump at the chance to sign Benzema.
The 25-year-old made a multi-million pound move from Houllier's previous club, Lyon, to Real last year but is reported to be unsettled.
It would be a massive coup for Villa if Houllier could attract such a quality player and the Villa boss said: "If Karim wants to come and play at Aston Villa, we would sign him tomorrow."
Houllier has made it clear he needs to sign new players during the January transfer window, but he has ruled out making a move for Manchester United striker Michael Owen, who played under him at Liverpool.
Pires is a free agent following his release by Villarreal last summer.
The 37-year-old, who won two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the 2002 Footballer of the Year prize during a six-year stint with the Gunners, says he is looking forward to having another taste of life in the Premier League.
And he has expressed his gratitude to Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, who he credits for bringing about his return to the English top flight.
"I just have to convince the team doctor and I hope to sign before the end of the week," Pires said in The Sun. "It would be for six months or longer, but there are still some things to sort out. I've been training with Arsenal for two months and I'm happy and in good form.
"I would like to thank Arsene Wenger - because of him I'm going to be able to experience the highest level again."
Former France international Pires could go straight into the squad to face Blackburn at Ewood Park on Sunday, or could make his Villa debut against his old club when they travel to the Emirates Stadium on November 27th.