Real Madrid striker Benzema breaks silence on blackmail investigation

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has broken his silence over an alleged blackmail plot.

Benzema is being investigated by French police over his alleged role.

On his conversation with France teammate Mathieu Valbuena, Benzema told TF1: “I heard there was a video in which he appeared and when I mentioned this to him it appeared that I already knew of its existence. I then told him that I could help him through a friend I have in Lyon. I asked him if he had advised his family.

“I'm speaking from the heart.

“We never spoke about money. I'm hearing all this talk about extortion and it's driving me crazy."

He added: “I hope that things work out. I'm not guilty. This will work out well for Valbuena, for my friend and for me."