Five Strikers Linked With Anfield Summer Switch

Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)

Opinion amongst Liverpool fans has been divided over Christian Benteke.

The 24 year old certainly knows how to find the back of the net, managing 49 goals in 99 appearances since arriving at Aston Villa in 2012.

Not bad when considering he’s had a few injury issues over the years, but at the same time raising concerns over his long-term fitness.

He also has a particular like for Liverpool, terrorising the Reds in the FA Cup semi-final defeat this year and in the 3-1 win at Anfield back in 2012.

However, it’s the form he has shown in 2015 that has led to all the rumours about a move away from Villa Park, with the Belgian international scoring 12 goals in his final 13 games of the season.

Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood has insisted that Benteke will not leave for anything less than his release clause – rumoured to be £32.5m.

Liverpool seem unwilling to pay that, and it’s clear to see why.

Whilst Benteke is a powerful forward, with speed, aggression and fantastic finishing, his work-rate is inconsistent, depending on his mood, and there is a worry among Reds fans that he would struggle to fit into Rodgers’ style of play, and follow the path of Andy Carroll and Rickie Lambert.

Furthermore, whilst his goal record is impressive, he is not worth over £30m. Liverpool have been linked with a £20m move, which would be the right valuation, but is unlikely to be accepted by Villa, unless Benteke goes on strike, also unlikely.

Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked with Benteke, but his wish for first team football with the European Championships a year away could mean that it all depends on whether Liverpool want to activate his release clause.

For that kind of money, the Reds should be able to do better.