It was just a matter of time as Benteke had made it very clear all along that he is only interested in his career (not what others say or feel).
Paul Lambert is said to be “hugely disappointed, which surprises me as it was obvious that this was on the cards.
A direct statement from Villa said;
"He will remain a Villa player should this not happen (unless a large bid is lodged).
"He was reminded that there are three years remaining on his contract, we consider him to be a Villa player and expect that he will be with us for the 2013-14 season."
However this will not set Benteke back at all and with this news now broken you would expect a bidding war for a player that scored 23 goals last season. The likes of Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and A. Madrid are all linked to the youngster.
Spurs have been quoted as admirers of the Belgian forward and with the likes of Villa out of the picture Tottenham are running out of available worthy options.
I feel that the club would certainly benefit from Benteke, but it’s whether we can agree an acceptable price (as Levy is unlikely to sanction a bid above £15million). Yes there is a chance of cash plus a player and Villa are known to be keen on Defoe (but it is unlikely that he would want to move to a club that will likely struggle again next season).
Let's see how this one pans out (but don't be surprised to see the player at WHL this season).
COYS!!!
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