Tottenham Turn Attentions From Villa To £20m Belgian Striker – Report

Tottenham Hotspur are now targeting Christian Benteke as their next signing after a move for David Villa fell through, reports claim.

Villas was believed to be a target for both Spurs and Arsenal, but his agent confirmed today that he is also courting interest from Fiorentina, meaning his price could be driven up yet again.

The Metro are claiming that Benteke is now Tottenham's number one target, with the club hoping to seriously bolster their attacking line-up this summer.

A lack of goals last season was part of the reason Spurs suffered at the hands of Arsenal in the race for a top four finish.

Emmanuel Adebayor had a particularly disappointing campaign after his successful performances on loan at the club earned him with a permanent deal the summer before.

Benteke, meanwhile, was an integral part of the Aston Villa line-up last season and his 23 goals across the board had a big hand in helping the club stay out of the relegation zone.

While Villa sealed safety in the Premier League for the 2013-14 season, the side will be accepting of the fact that they could lose one of their best players to a big club if the offer is right.

"It is going to take very silly money for Villa to part with Benteke," Paul Lambert said of the star. "Clubs who are interested know they will have to break the bank to sign Christian."

The Metro reports that Tottenham are willing to offer £20m for Benteke's services, which would certainly be enough to get the Midlands club's attention.

Benteke also made it clear whilst on international duty that if he receives a tempting offer, he will push for a move.

"If Aston Villa say I must stay, I won't necessarily accept that," he insisted. "I do not in any way want to feel I didn't get the most out of my career. With my family I will decide where my future lies."

Tottenham can offer Europa League football to the striker this season and in the future are aiming for Champions League qualification once more, while Villa are unlikely to push for European football for some time.