Aston Villa planning Benteke contract talks

Aston Villa manager Tim Sherwood confirmed that he is planning to sit down with star striker Christian Benteke and discuss a new contract. The Belgian forward has just 18 months left on his current deal.

With the burly striker heading into the final season of his current contract, Sherwood is keen to make sure the player pens a new deal at Villa Park.

"We don't want to sell our best players. I also want players who want to play at the football club," Sherwood quipped.

"He's made no indication to me that he wants to play elsewhere. If he does then we will assess the situation but we want to keep him at the club. You can't force any player, I've been one myself.

"You might as well take the money because you end up without the money or the player if you don't take it."

Benteke is apparently a target for Manchester United and Everton.