Liverpool Transfer News: Christian Benteke Targeted by West Brom, Latest Rumours

Liverpool striker Christian Benteke has reportedly attracted interest from West Bromwich Albion.

That’s according to the Daily Mail’s Simon Jones, who noted the Reds are prepared to offload the Belgian in the summer to fund additions to the squad. However, after costing the Anfield outfit £32.5 million last year, Jones suggested the Baggies may struggle to afford Benteke unless they sell Saido Berahino.

The 25-year-old has had a torrid time at Liverpool—an ill-fitting player for Brendan Rodgers and his passing style, Benteke is arguably even less suited to Jurgen Klopp’s high-energy pressing.

The striker has accrued just eight goals in 35 outings for the Reds, and just one of those has come in 2016.

Bleacher Report UK’s Jack Lusby has been among his biggest critics:

BT Sport showing those Benteke offside runs again—hilariously poor. Not sure what he’s thinking when he runs behind the defence? Every game.

— Jack Lusby (@jacklusby_) February 9, 2016

What has further harmed Benteke’s chances of making his move to Liverpool work is the rise of Divock Origi, who has surpassed his compatriot in goals scored this season. ESPN general editor Alex Shaw and football writer Tom McMahon noted how Benteke compares unfavourably with his team-mate:

Origi is everything Benteke isn’t.

— Alex Shaw (@AlexShawESPN) …

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