Liverpool set to meet Benteke's £32.5m release clause

Liverpool are ready to meet the £32.5m release clause of Aston Villa's Belgium striker Christian Benteke, triggering a potential transfer.

The 24-year-old Belgium forward scored 12 goals in 12 games at the end of last season to help Aston Villa avoid relegation.

The Reds made £49m from the sale of Raheem Sterling to Manchester City, so they are willing to meet the asking price.

Earlier, Rodgers said that despite the departure of England forward Sterling, 20, Liverpool could still attract top players.

"Players are always going to want to come to Liverpool, it's such an iconic club, it's a great club," he said.

"The challenge for us is to get back in amongst the top teams, hopefully that continues to attract players."

Benteke still has two years left on his contract at Villa.

He joined Aston Villa from Genk in August 2012 for £7m and has scored 49 goals in 101 appearances.