Liverpool transfer news: Christian Benteke can leave if £32.5m release clause is met, says Tim Sherwood

The Villa boss admitted it may be 'impossible' to stop the striker leaving

Christian Benteke has a buy-out clause of £32.5 million (Getty Images)

It would be "impossible" for Aston Villa to stop Christian Benteke joining Liverpool if they meet his £32.5 million buy-out clause, Tim Sherwood has admitted.

The Reds have emerged as the front-runners for the Belgian striker's signature as Brendan Rodgers seeks to address the lack of goals that blighted his side's season.

However, Sherwood insisted that any suitor would have to meet the "substantial" clause, which is understood to be £32.5 million, in full.

"Everyone has it. Most players would have it when they sign new contracts. I don't know what the figure is but I believe it will be quite substantial."

After struggling during the early stages of the season Benteke has regained top form since the arrival of Sherwood at Villa Park, scoring 12 goals in his last 12 games to spearhead the club's successful battle against relegation and run to the FA Cup final.

He will start against Arsenal at Wembley tomorrow as Villa aim to secure their eighth FA Cup victory and first for 48 years.

Liverpool remain the favourites to sign Danny Ings, whose long-standing preference for the Reds should win out despite an eleventh-hour move from Spurs.