Barcelona director of football Txik Begiristain on Wednesday revealec that French starlet Karim Benzemz turned down a summer move to the Spanish giants.

"We've tried to sign him severa times but it's never been possible,' Begiristain told www.frencfleague.com. "We tried this summer but he wanted to stay at Lyon."

Benzema, at 20, is one of France'; biggest hopes for the future. He was top goalscorer last year in the French first division, and heads the scoring chart so far this season withsix.

Benzema has become a regulat fixture in Raymond Domenech'; national team, making 16 appearances and netting four times.

Begiristain insisted that he intended to keep tabs on the striker despite growing interest from othei top clubs such as Manchester Unitec and Inter.

"In the end it will be his decision We have excellent relations with both him and his club and we’ll definitely keep in contact so that he knows we want him, and that he wants to come to us," he said.