Tim Sherwood: Chelsea cannot afford 'best striker in Europe' Christian Benteke

Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood believes that in-form hitman Christian Benteke is Europe's finest striker and played down speculation linking Chelsea with a move.

The Belgian has enjoyed a new lease of life since Sherwood took charge in February, netting 11 times in his last nine games to push Villa closer to Premier League safety.

The 24-year-old saw his red-hot form acknowledged after winning Player of the Month for April, and speculation of a £30m switch to West London soon followed.

"I don't know if there's a better striker in Europe right now. He's the best," Sherwood is quoted as saying by BBC Sport.

"Benteke is going nowhere in the summer, no one can afford him. He's in great form. We're creating the chances for him and he's sticking them away."

Benteke has netted 14 times in all competitions this season, three of which came under axed manager Paul Lambert.