Liverpool want £30 million for Christian Benteke, who has fallen behind Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and Roberto Firmino in the pecking order.
The Reds have already signed Southampton and Senegalese winger Sadio Mane for a reported fee of £34 million. The 24-year old Schalke defender Joel Matip is also arriving at Anfield on a free transfer. However, there are more changes to come as Jurgen Klopp looks to shape the squad to his liking in his first summer transfer window as Liverpool manager.
Former Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers brought Belgian Christian Benteke to Anfield last summer, paying Aston Villa £32.5 million and making him the second most expensive transfer in club history. However ,Benteke has fallen out of favour under new manager Jurgen Klopp.
The 25-year old striker is behind Daniel Sturridge, Divock Origi and Roberto Firmino in the pecking order. Mario Balotelli’s return from a loan spell and Danny Ings’ return from injury will make things even more difficult for him. Benteke was used mostly as a cup specialist by Klopp last season and his role is set to become even more minor with the aforementioned competition he has to battle next season.
The Belgian had earlier expressed his frustration at the lack of game-time he’s getting at Anfield, stating that he will take a decision on his future after the European Championship.
Premier League side Crystal Palace have registered an interest in the player and West Ham United have also been linked with the club.
However, despite the situation with the striker, Liverpool are not willing to let him go for a bargain price and wants to recover most of the money they’ve spent on the player. The club has now met Crystal Palace’s inquiries with a transfer fee demand of £30 million, according to the Telegraph.
Christian Benteke is still only 25 and has managed to get among the goals despite his limited opportunities. The Belgian has scored 9 goals and registered 3 assists for Liverpool in the Premier League, despite starting only 14 of his 29 appearances for the club.
His aerial strength could also be a valuable asset to a team willing to compromise on playing aesthetically pleasing, passing football.
