Agent Confirms Dortmund Are Keen On Arsenal Target Benteke
The agent of Christian Benteke has confirmed reports that Borussia Dortund are interested in securing the Belgian's services.
The Aston Villa forward has enjoyed a seamless transition to the Premier League following his summer arrival from Belgian outfit Genk, hitting 23 goals in his maiden campaign as he helped steer the club away from relegation.
Despite assurances from both Villa manager Paul Lambert and club owner Randy Learner that the 22-year-old will not be sold this summer, Benteke has been inevitably linked with moves away from the club, with Tottenham Hotspur & Arsenal linked with a move when Villa were perilously close to relegation.
But Champions League finalists Dortmund have emerged as another possible destination, after Benteke's agent Eris Kismet confirmed that the German club's sporting director Michael Zorc was present at Villa's last game, a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea.
"I am aware of the Dortmund representation at Villa Park for the Chelsea match, but Christian is still a Villa player and nothing has changed on that point," Kismet told ESPN.
"There were a lot of scouts from many teams who have an interest in Christian. Now Aston Villa's future is decided we will know more.
"It is natural for many teams to show an interest when Christian has had such a good season and scored many goals, but it is his first season in the Premier League."
Dortmund have been linked with a number of forward options as they prepare to lose their leading front man Robert Lewandowski. The Polish international is on the cusp of moving into the last year of his contract at the Westfalenstadion, but his refusal to his extend his stay beyond next season suggests the club will allow him to leave this summer.
Lewandowski has struck 22 Bundesliga goals in addition to his 10 Champions League efforts this season, a contribution that the club will struggle to replace next term. Should the club make a move for the £20m rated Benteke, they may have a difficult task in convincing the Belgian himself, who has previously vowed to repay the faith Lambert showed in him.
"I like to give my all and do my job, and I have to give back to him (Lambert) for what he has given me," Benteke said last month.
"I was keen to come here because the manager was so keen to have me here. It is different people want you."
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