Atletico Madrid open Christian Benteke talks

Atletico Madrid have started off negotiations with Liverpool to sign Belgian striker Christian Benteke. The 25-year-old largely struggled to impress at Anfield following his move from Aston Villa last summer.

Benteke is currently the Reds' third-choice striker behind the likes of Daniel Sturridge and Divock Origi.

Spanish source Fichajes claims that Atleti have opened up discussions for the Belgian with manager Diego Simeone eager to bring in a new centre-forward ahead of the new campaign.

The report goes on to state that the Reds would cash in on their player provided any club matches their £24.7m asking price.

Meanwhile, Benteke's agent has dismissed the speculation with the assurance that his client would stay put at Merseyside next season.