Christian Benteke: Summer Transfer Window Profile and Scouting Report

Aston Villa forward Christian Benteke is among many players being tipped for a possible transfer in the summer window.

Here's a breakdown of his numbers and a brief scouting guide to the Belgium international, along with a few hints as to where he might be playing next summer.

Age: 22

Contract Situation: Benteke's current deal expires in June 2016

Career Stops: Genk (2007-09), Standard Liege (2009-11), Genk (2011-12), Aston Villa (2012-present)

Current Campaign Stats

Premier League: 34 games, 19 goals

League Cup: 5 games, 4 goals

Video Showreel

 

Scouting Guide

Along with promising stars such as Eden Hazard, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, Benteke is part of a golden generation of Belgian talent, and the rangy striker was one of the few bright spots in an extremely disappointing season for Aston Villa fans. His 19 league goals broke the record set by Dwight Yorke in the club for a single season, and he proved that the £7 million spent in 2012 was money well invested. 

Benteke's height and aerial ability are key factors in his success, making him the perfect target for crosses fired in from across the pitch. But while the Kinshasa-born target man's physical attributes gain most attention, he also possesses ample talent with the ball at his feet as well as a natural eye for goal which makes him a menace in the area. 

 

Where to Next?

Amid strong rumours that Benteke will be the subject of fierce bidding in the upcoming transfer window, Aston Villa have already moved to assure his future in Birmingham. According to the Birmingham Mail, the club have begun talks with the Belgium international to extend his contract, which has three years left to run. 

If the striker rejects Villa's advances and opts for a switch, he will have no shortage of options. The Guardian asserted back in December that Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas had identified Benteke for a summer approach. According to the Mirror, clubs as varied as Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan and Arsenal are all also closely following the youngster's intentions should he decide against prolonging his stay in the Midlands.