Sam Allardyce is considering selling Crystal Palace’s record buy, Christian Benteke, to fund new signings, according to The Mirror.
The Belgian, though, is reportedly keen to block any attempts by his new manager to offload him and wants to stay in south London.
Benteke cost Palace an initial £27m and thus, Allardyce is aware he’d command a serious fee, especially given the fact he’s already scored eight goals in his 18 Premier League games this season.
West Brom manager Tony Pulis is thought to be interested in the striker, despite the fact Benteke turned down the Midlands club in the summer.
The Baggies are even said to be weighing up offering Saido Berahino as part of any deal.
Paris Saint-Germain was another club reportedly interested in the ex-Liverpool player, but it’s yet to become clear if they will solidify their interest.
Allardyce could be taking a huge risk selling a player who continually looks a real threat in forward areas.
Benteke has never failed to score goals throughout his career and with the Eagles not yet guaranteed Premier League safety, his goals might very well be needed for the remainder of this season.
However, it’s understandable that Allardyce wants some new players to make his mark on the squad and selling the hitman could be his best option to raise sufficient funds to do so.
