MADRID - NEW Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema said Brazilian World Cup winner Ronaldo will be his inspiration as he looks to fire the goals to help the Spanish giants dethrone Barcelona in La Liga.

'Ronaldo is the greatest player in the world. He is my inspiration and every time I go on the pitch I will try to repeat what he did,' said the 21-year-old French striker in tribute to the club's former star attacker.

However, Benzema, bought from French side Lyon, refused to put a number on the goals he'll score in his first season with big-spending Real.

'I am at a club at the highest level, the competition at Real will be very tough and I will have to work to make my mark,' added Benzema who will be paid an estimated 6.5 million euros a year.

Benzema, who was also a target for Manchester United, Barcelona and Inter Milan, added: 'Real are a very big team. It's a dream to play here.' The Frenchman will play in a Real Madrid side which will also feature fellow newboys Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo. -- AFP