Agent: 'Christian Benteke could leave Aston Villa'

The agent of Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke has hinted that his client could leave for higher pastures in the summer.

A host of Europe's elite clubs have been linked with a move for the 11-goal forward, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly leading the Premier League interest.

The Belgian's representative, Erik Kismet, insisted that Benteke's current focus is on Villa's relegation battle, but refused to commit the striker's future to the West Midlands club beyond the end of the season.

He said: "It is normal that if you go to a club and do well, then other clubs will show an interest. Christian has shown that he can play in England so why not take the step up to the next level if the opportunity is there?

"At the end of the season, interested clubs will talk to Villa, but it has to be right for Villa, the buying club and Christian.

"If all three parties are agreeable, something could happen, but right now his focus is on Villa, helping them stay in the Premier League."

Chelsea and Arsenal are among the other clubs apparently monitoring Benteke.