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Arsenal and Tottenham target Christian Benteke told to grow up by Paul Lambert
PAUL LAMBERT has warned Christian Benteke he will be taking a massive risk by quitting Aston Villa – because he has not yet developed a man’s brain.
Villa want at least £30 million for the striker, targeted by Arsenal, Tottenham and Atletico Madrid, after he spoke out over his desire to leave the club.
Lambert said: "Christian is a top lad, but outside influences can be pretty dangerous for any player. He’s a 22-year-old with a man’s physique, but without yet having developed a man’s brain.
Benteke struck 19 Premier League goals during his first season in English football last campaign, but Lambert feels staying at Villa Park is best for the Belgian's career.
"He has been fantastic," continued Lambert. "As have a lot of the young lads. But a lot of these lads are still maturing. Any young player that moves, the pressure on them is high.
"If you take that gamble to move to one of these huge clubs, then you might not play as many games. That's the gamble.
"Footballers want to play the game, that's the big thing for them. If they are hungry enough to play, then that's half the battle."