Chelsea have completed the signing of Marseille striker Michy Batshuayi, officially unveiling the £33m signing this past Sunday (via Sky Sports). While this doesn’t necessarily impact us directly, it could potentially help us move Christian Benteke on – if that’s still Jurgen Klopp’s plan.
Batshuayi was heavily linked with a move to Crystal Palace before he joined Chelsea, with the Eagles even having a massive £31.5m bid accepted (according to Sky Sports). They have also seen a £25m bid for Benteke turned down (via Sky Sports), but now that Batshuayi is gone they may dial up their attempts to land the struggling Liverpool star.
The same report suggests we’re looking for £30m for the 25-year-old, as we’re hoping to recoup most of the £32.5m we forked out to sign him from Aston Villa. We know Palace can afford our valuation as they bid more than that for Batshuayi, so it just depends how badly they need a new striker and how highly they value Benteke.
The Belgian international is unquestionably a talented player, but he just doesn’t suit Liverpool or Jurgen Klopp. A move away from Anfield would arguably suit all parties, and he could still experience real success at another club.
West Ham have also been credited with an interest in Benteke, but Crystal Palace have so far shown the most desire to sign him.
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There’s no telling whether missing out on Batshuayi will actually force their hand and see them come back in for Benteke, but it certainly limits their options and increases the chances he’ll depart.