There is no agreement in place between Aston Villa and Liverpool for striker Christian Benteke, despite claims a deal to take the Belgium international to Anfield is close, the player and his agent believe.
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is a firm fan of Benteke and wants him to fire the goals to drive the Reds back into the Premier League's top four next season.
But Liverpool have been unwilling to meet a £32.5m release clause contained in Benteke's contract, which has led to transfer deadlock.
And despite claims to the contrary, according to Belgian daily Het Laaste Nieuws, Benteke and his agent are not aware of any agreement between the clubs at present.
Liverpool have been pushing their summer transfer business over the line early, having already signed Adam Bogdan, Joe Gomez, James Milner, Roberto Firmino and Danny Ings.
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The Reds may be keen to have Benteke signed and sealed before they leave for their pre-season tour.
Liverpool are first in action in Thailand on 14th July, when they play a Thai All Star side in Bangkok.
Then the Reds head to Australia for two games, against Brisbane Roar and Adelaide United, respectively, before a match in Kuala Lumpur against a Malaysia XI.
Liverpool head back to Europe to face HJK Helsinki in their final tour match.
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