Christian Benteke to Manchester United: Aston Villa striker sparks transfer frenzy with Twitter activity

Belgium international has a £32.5m release clause

Christian Benteke has a £32.5m escape clause in his contract (Getty)

Christian Benteke has fuelled speculation that he could be set for an imminent transfer to Manchester United.

The Aston Villa striker has been the subject of intense speculation this summer, with the Belgium international thought likely to depart Villa Park before the transfer window closes.

However, the 24-year-old has up until now found himself linked most consistently with Tottenham and Liverpool. It's thought that both those clubs have held talks with Aston Villa but are unwilling to match the striker's release clause of £32.5m.

But it seems Manchester United could trump them both, with their outlay on new players this summer displaying their willingness to spend big. It is no secret that Louis van Gaal is seeking a new striker having sanctioned the departure of Robin van Persie, opted not to retain Radamel Falcao and his continued scepticism over Javier Hernandez.

The club have been linked with Edinson Cavani and Robert Lewandowski, and are now being linked with Benteke.

The player himself appears keen on a move judging by his Twitter activity today. He favourited a post from a fan who said the striker was “exactly what they needed” as back-up to Wayne Rooney.

He has since un-favourited it but it hasn't stopped deluges of speculation and chat on social media about the possibility of a move.