Aston Villa striker is wanted by Liverpool
Manchester United could be set to beat fierce-rivals Liverpool to Christian Benteke, according to reports this morning.
The Reds have been strongly linked with signing the Belgium international from Aston Villa this summer, with reports suggesting they’d buy him with the cash they raise from Raheem Sterling‘s sale.
Sales at Old Trafford
However, United could be a step ahead of them and could beat them to the signing as their quest for a striker hots up.
The Red Devils sent Radamel Falcao back to AS Monaco after a failed loan spell, whilst Robin Van Persie is on the brink of joining Turkish side Fenerbache.
Javier Hernandez is still technically a United player, but he has been told by Louis Van Gaal to find a new club after spending last season out on loan with Spanish giants Real Madrid.
This would leave Van Gaal with just Wayne Rooney and James Wilson as striking options ahead of the new season, but his attentions have now turned to Benteke from Villa Park.
United announced Matteo Darmian and Bastian Schweinsteiger yesterday, and now they are set to focus on the attacking department with a striker desperately needed.
Villa Remain Firm on Asking Price
As for Villa, they are still adamant that they won’t sell their star-striker for anything less than his release clause in his contract, which is worth £32.5million.
With the high asking-price, Liverpool have stalled on making a formal move for the Belgium, but money is no issue at Old Trafford and a formal bid could be launched that could meet the asking price.
Benteke ended the season on fire last season, scoring 11 goals in the last 12 games, taking his tally to 13 for the season.
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
