Everton eye Liverpool striker Benteke

Everton have joined the race to sign Belgian striker Christian Benteke from local rivals Liverpool, according to reports.

The Daily Star is reporting that Everton are interested in signing Christian Benteke before the transfer window closes in two weeks’ time.

The Toffees’ star striker Romelu Lukaku has been linked with a return to Chelsea for most of the summer, with the Blues reportedly willing to smash their current transfer record with an offer of as much as £70 million for the 23-year-old marksman.

Everton are reluctant to part ways with one of their key players, particularly after having sold 22-year-old defender John Stones to Manchester City for £47.5 million.

But the Merseysiders’ interest in Benteke could suggest that their stance on Lukaku’s availability is softening, as they prepare to replace one powerful Belgian striker with another.

Benteke joined Liverpool from Aston Villa just a year ago, but the Belgian does not appear to figure in Jürgen Klopp’s plans at Anfield. The Reds may be willing to part ways with Benteke, but they will expect to recoup the vast majority of the £32 million they paid for him.

Everton are not alone in their interest in Benteke, however, as Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion are also chasing the former Villa player.

Palace, who are currently favourites to sign the player, have recently had a bid of £23 million plus £7 million in add-ons rejected by Liverpool.