Aston Villa‘s Christian Benteke could be set to sign a new contract at Villa Park and put an end to transfer rumours linking him with a move to Liverpool this summer.
The Reds have been the subject of a potential £32.5 million bid for the Belgian international striker, a fee which would trigger a release clause in his contract.
However, the Birmingham Mail report on Monday that Benteke will meet with Villa boss Tim Sherwood this week to discuss his future.
Mat Kendrick writes:
As part of the negotiations, Sherwood will implore the board to offer Benteke a new contract in an attempt to ward off suitors for the star striker.
That improved contract would almost certainly see a pay rise for the 24-year-old, who is currently on £50,000 per week.
Meanwhile the Daily Mirror report quotes from Benteke himself looking positively at the future of Villa
He said, “If you want to take something positive, it’s the fact we are safe. Now we can look forward to try to build something strong.”
If Benteke were to be lured by a new contract at Villa, it may come as a sigh of relief to some Liverpool fans who have baulked at the suggested £32.5 million price tag.
Over the weekend This Is Anfield’s Jack Lusby brought us an analysis of Benteke’s FA Cup final performance, drawing the conclusion that he’s not the right striker for Liverpool’s needs.
However, The Telegraph‘s John Percy says Liverpool are “expected to submit an opening bid for the forward this week” with Chelsea and Manchester United also said to be interested.
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