Tim Sherwood feels Christian Benteke can play for Real Madrid

Tim Sherwood and Christian Benteke

Aston Villa manager, Tim Sherwood, has confirmed that star striker, Christian Benteke, has a buy-out clause in his contract, but said he should leave after the European Championships as he might even attract Real Madrid based on his talent. Sherwood was quick to point out that the player as not mentioned anything about leaving the club.

Benteke has been linked with a move to Liverpool and Manchester United this season having scored 15 goals in all competitions. According to reports, the buy-out fee is in the range of £32.5m, but Sherwood did not confirm the exact amount.

“Benteke's made no indication that he wants to leave. Someone's got to meet that buy-out clause and if they don't it won't be considered because we don't want to lose him.” said the ex-Tottenham boss.

Benteke, who still has two years left on his contract, has been instrumental in Villa’s survival and FA Cup run this season. He has scored an incredible 49 goals in just 99 matches since his move to Villa from Belgian club Genk.

Sherwood has urged Benteke to stay at Villa Park for another season saying, “I don't think he should be moving clubs before a European Championship. By playing for Aston Villa it hasn't hindered him being the first choice at Belgium, up to now. So to come here and score at the ratio in which he has scored, since I have taken over, if he ends scoring 20 or 30 goals next season he is probably playing for Real Madrid.”