Benteke set for medical ahead of Liverpool move

It has been revealed today that Christian Benteke is to undergo a two day medical in London ahead of his move to Liverpool.

The Express reported this morning that Christian Benteke is set to begin a two day medical this afternoon in London, ahead of the long expected move to Liverpool.

This development comes days after Liverpool finally matched Christian Benteke's £32.5 million release clause, amid fresh speculation that Manchester United were set to hijack the move. Whilst the move briefly stalled after it was revealed that Liverpool wanted to pay for the big Belgian in installments, it appears as though Liverpool will in fact pay the majority of the fee up front, with the rest coming by way of add-ons.

It's not too surprising that Liverpool are being extra thorough with the medical. Obviously, given the large transfer fee, Liverpool want to ensure that there won't be a repeat of the serious knee injury that ruled the Belgian out of the World Cup last year.

It is now all but inevitable that Christian Benteke is joining Liverpool, and the timing of the move allows him to link up with the rest of the squad on Wednesday as they return from their pre-season tour to Australia. As for Villa, there is enough time between now and the start of the season to secure a replacement. But whoever signs will clearly have big boots to fill.