Premier League champions Chelsea are being linked with a shock move for Christian Benteke.

Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla has reported that the Blues are 'particularly interested' in the Aston Villa striker ahead of a possible summer swoop.

Liverpool and Manchester United have been credited with an interest in Benteke, while AS Roma are also very keen, but Jose Mourinho sees him as the heir apparent to Didier Drogba whose future at Stamford Bridge is again in doubt.

Benteke has netted 11 goals in his past nine outings to fire Villa four points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.