Use your head like Sadio and subscribe to the Liverpool FC newsletter Sign me up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Adam Lallana believes Liverpool’s £32.5million move for Christian Benteke is a huge statement of intent from the club for the season ahead.

The Aston Villa striker is expected to complete his transfer to Anfield next week after the Reds triggered his release clause.

Benteke arrived back to the UK on Saturday following Villa’s training camp in Portugal.

Lallana is an admirer of the big Belgium international, who has netted 49 goals in 101 appearances for the Midlands outfit.

“Signing Benteke would be a big statement,” Lallana said.

“He is a big presence. He has always scored goals.

“I’ve read what’s been in the press and I think that would be a very strong component for us if he is to arrive.”

Benteke will become Brendan Rodgers’ seventh summer signing following deals for James Milner, Danny Ings, Joe Gomez, Adam Bogdan, Roberto Firmino and Nathaniel Clyne.

Lallana says the new boys have helped to lift the mood following the bleak end to last season.

“There’s a good buzz around the place and the new signings have been brilliant so far,” Lallana said.

“There’s a good balance. Nathaniel I know well, he is a solid signing for us and he is just going to get better under Brendan’s guidance.

“James Milner is a great professional and a great player as well. He has won the league and he will bring something diferent for the players.

“Divock (Origi) brings something different as well to the team. Danny Ings as well from what I’ve seen so far I’ve been really impressed, even at Burnley last year.

“Liverpool have done some shrewd business so far and we’ve got Coutinho and Firmino to link up yet as well.”