Crystal Palace have agreed a £32 million deal to sign Christian Benteke from Liverpool based on reports and Eagles manager Alan Pardew also confirmed that the Belgian striker will undergo his medical soon.
However, Pardew also mentioned that Palace are yet to agree personal terms with the player but expect the transfer to be completed in the next 24-48 hours. It is understood that Palace have agreed to pay £27 million up front to Liverpool with £5m in add-ons.
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Pardew confirmed the news during an interview with Sky Sports where he said: "He'll have his medical today but personal terms have to be done. We've agreed everything with Liverpool.
"We've lost Mile and Yannick - both big figures at this club. We need to replace them with others.
"Benteke is someone I know very well as I wanted to take him to Newcastle. It just didn't work out for him at Liverpool."
Pardew understands that fans were disappointed after the opening day defeat against West Bromwich Albion but the manager is hopeful of a good support when Palace take on Tottenham this weekend. Pardew is confident of Benteke’s arrival and is also expected to welcome Yohan Cabaye and Jordon Mutch back to the starting XI.
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Pardew said: "Our fans after the West Brom game were disappointed but it won't be more of the same. That's why we're making changes. I'm making changes to make our form better, results more consistent. This group are great and should get a lift by a signing.”
Pardew’s failed attempt at stopping Bolasie
Speaking on Yannick Bolasie’s departure from Selhurst Park, Pardew confirmed that he did try to convince Bolasie to stay for at least this season but the Congo International star was looking for a change and had to be sold to Everton.
It is understood that Bolasie’s £30 million exit has prompted Pardew to go out and make a stunning £32million bid for Benteke, who could never settle at Anfield. Many would point out to his lack of goals for Liverpool but the fact still remains that Benteke was bought by Brendan Rodgers and his premature exit led to the Belgian’s Anfield struggles.
Jurgen Klopp came in and could hardly figure out a way to use the lanky striker in his plans. Klopp likes to field mobile players up front which he could never do with Benteke. Eventually, Divock Origi and Daniel Sturridge ended up being Klopp’s favored strike pairing.
The Reds were keen on getting back the £32 million they paid for Benteke with West Ham also linked with a move for the Belgian. Eventually, it is Crystal Palace who have agreed to the pay the quoted price and are expecting to formally announce Benteke’s arrival before the end of this week.
