Football news LIVE: Karim Benzema WINS Ballon d’Or ahead of Premier League stars, Chelsea’s shock Rafael Leao proposal

REAL MADRID and France striker Karim Benzema has been named as the winner of the 2022 Ballon d’Or.

It was a well deserved win for the 34-year-old, who has risen to be come one of the best players in world football.

And Beznema beat a host of Premier League stars to the award, including third-placed Kevin De Bruyne.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have reportedly made a shock proposal for AC Milan talisman Rafael Leao just months after signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Leao is one of the most sought-after forwards but the Blues could face a challenge landing their man with Manchester United now in the race.