Liverpool legend Ray Houghton has claimed the Merseyside are willing to spend big to land Christian Benteke from Aston Villa this summer, report the Express.
Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is determined to sign a new frontline forward before the Premier League season begins in August and has made the signing of Benteke his top priority.
Reports suggest the two clubs have held talks regarding the transfer but negotiations had hit an impasse due to Liverpool’s reluctance to meet the £32.5 million release clause in Benteke’s contract and Villa’s unwilling to accept bids below that sum.
But ex-Reds midfielder Houghton insists the club aren’t deterred by the 24-year-0ld’s price tag and will press ahead in their efforts to bring him to Anfield.
“I heard that Benteke was one of their major priorities in the summer, that he was the one that they were looking for.
“Benteke is a huge player. I think if he went to Liverpool he would fit into the style. He’s something they haven’t got, he’s big, he’s physical.
“He can upset defenders, he’s got genuine pace and when you get him in the right frame of mind he can score goals.”
The Belgium international scored 15 goals in all competitions for Villa last term and was revitalised under Tim Sherwood’s management during the second half of the campaign.