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Report: Lazio to rival Premier League suitors for Christian Benteke

By Joe Fish, Reporter | 15 October 2013

Italian outfit Lazio are ready to rival the Premier League admirers of Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke, and are apparently considering a January bid.

Serie A giants Lazio are believed to be the biggest competition for any Premier League clubs looking to sign Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke.

The Belgium international has attracted a host of admirers with his performances for the West Midlands club since joining them in a £7m deal from Genk in 2012.

Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have all been linked with a move for the 22-year-old, who handed in a transfer request at Villa Park in the summer.

He eventually signed an improved contract extension with Paul Lambert's side, but there is still expected to be renewed interest in him when the window reopens.

According to the Daily Star, Lazio boss Vladimir Petkovic is keen to add to his attacking options after recently selling Libor Kozak to Villa, and will launch a bid for Benteke in January.

Juventus are also reportedly considering an offer for Benteke, who has scored 28 goals in 45 appearances for the Villans, following Fernando Llorente's poor start to life at the Old Lady.