Chelsea transfer news and rumours: Christian Benteke targeted in bizarre move
The latest Chelsea transfer move doing the rounds is a shocking one that sees the Blues preparing a move for Liverpool’s Christian Benteke.
As we edge ever closer towards the summer transfer window, the extraordinary rumours are starting to emerge. The latest story links Chelsea with an audacious move for Christian Benteke should they fail to secure Romelu Lukaku.
The Times (subscription required) claims that the Belgian is being viewed as a cheaper alternative to his fellow countryman.
"Chelsea are pursuing Christian Benteke as an alternative signing should they fail to bring Romelu Lukaku back to Stamford Bridge this summer."
All three of Loic Remy, Radamel Falcao and Alexandre Pato are expected to depart Stamford Bridge before the start of next season, leaving Antonio Conte with only Diego Costa at his disposal. Furthermore, he could also be on his way out with interest from Atletico Madrid.
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As a result, new strikers are needed. Lukaku has reportedly been identified as a priority in that department, but Everton’s demands may render the move invalid. The former Chelsea man has had a great season in a woefully underachieving team, scoring 25 competitive goals.
Lukaku left the Blues in search of regular football two years ago, but Conte is eager to bring him back to West London.
However, should that plan fail, Benteke could be the striking target instead. The 25-year-old joined Liverpool last summer, jumping from the doomed ship that was Aston Villa. Unfortunately, he could not make an impact under either Brendan Rodgers or Jurgen Klopp.
This news is unlikely to excite Chelsea fans. With the Blues looking to overhaul a squad that made the worst defence of a Premier League title in history, they would be hoping for better talent.
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Benteke is a decent footballer, but with Liverpool likely requiring a significant proportion of their initial £30 million outlay, this is not worth it.
The club needs strikers, but such a transfer is just splashing the cash for the sake of it. Chelsea do not necessarily need to spend big, but they need to spend smart. A ridiculous bid for Christian Benteke does not represent the latter.
Hopefully, this rumour is firmly one of those generated by bored tabloid journalists with a random name generator. Benteke is not particularly revered around Anfield and there is nothing to indicate that the situation will not be the same at Stamford Bridge.
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What do you think of the story? Are you going to disregard it? Let us know in the comments below!