Benteke signs new Villa deal after transfer request U-turn

Christian Benteke has signed a new four-year contract with Aston Villa, less than two weeks after handing in a transfer request.

The Belgian striker withdrew his request and agreed the new deal on 19 July, in a major boost for manager Paul Lambert and the club's supporters.

A U-turn

On 8 July, reports emerged that Benteke had asked to leave the club. Villa confirmed that he had handed in a transfer request, and said he would be allowed to go if a suitable offer was made within an appropriate timeframe.

The news alarmed supporters, who had watched him become one of the most exciting strikers in the Premier League during his first season at the club. Several clubs were reported to be interested in signing him.

Now, 11 days later, Benteke has changed his mind and committed his future to Villa.

A remarkable first season

Benteke joined Villa from the Belgian club Genk last summer and quickly became a favourite at Villa Park. He was the club's top scorer as Villa avoided relegation, finishing 15th, and his goals were crucial in a season when the team spent much of the time near the bottom of the table.

His strength, heading ability and eye for goal made him one of the signings of the season, and he has become a regular in the Belgium national team.

Lambert's young team

Keeping Benteke is a big boost for Lambert, who is building one of the youngest squads in the Premier League. Last season was a difficult one, with an 8-0 defeat at Chelsea and a League Cup semi-final defeat to Bradford City of League Two. But the team finished strongly, including a 6-1 win over Sunderland, the club's biggest victory since 2008.

Villa's under-19 side also won the NextGen Series, a European competition for young players, giving supporters hope for the future.

Summer business

Lambert has been busy in the transfer market this summer, adding several young players from abroad to his squad, and the club's pre-season preparations are under way.

Villa begin the new Premier League season away to Arsenal on 17 August, followed by their first home game against Liverpool a week later.

What it means

For a club that has had to sell several of its best players in recent years, keeping hold of its star striker is a significant moment. Supporters will hope it is a sign that the club can hold on to its best talent and build a team capable of moving up the table.

Benteke's new contract also protects the club's position if other clubs return with offers in the future, ensuring that Villa would receive a substantial fee for one of their most valuable players.