Gabriel Agbonlahor hopeful Christian Benteke will stay at Aston Villa

Striker likely to receive interest during the summer

Benteke celebrates his goal for Aston Villa (Getty Images)

Gabriel Agbonlahor believes it is inevitable fellow Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke will be a target for leading clubs after his fine form this season.

Benteke has scored 15 goals for the midlands club since his £8million summer move from Genk.

Villa boss Paul Lambert insists Benteke has already at least doubled in value and he has already been linked with possible summer moves to north London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham.

Agbonlahor feels 22-year-old Benteke could play on an even higher stage, although he hopes the Belgian international will remain at Villa beyond this season.

Agbonlahor said: "Christian is one of the players of the season for me so far.

"He's going to get linked with the top clubs, especially because of his age. He's young. He's gifted in what he can do so he's going to be linked with a lot of clubs.

"I think he's good enough for even higher than them (Arsenal and Tottenham).

"He's showed that by the way he plays with his composure for a big guy and he has quite a bit of pace as well.

"There are many aspects of his game that are at the top level."

In terms of Benteke's future, Agbonlahor said: "He's still learning his trade here and enjoying his football so hopefully he stays here.

"We will have to wait until the end of the season to see what the club decides.

"It's not for anyone else to decide, it's going to be down to the club and what their plans are for him."

PA