Tottenham are stepping up their bid for Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke.

The Mirror says Spurs have been heartened by the fact that, despite the resistance of his club, the Belgium international has not yet committed his future to Villa by signing a new contract.

Interested clubs, including Atletico Madrid, who need a striker after selling Radamel Falcao to Monaco, have been told they will have to stump up at least £25m for his services.

But Spurs, who offered Jermain Defoe to Aston Villa last month in part-exchange for Benteke, are undeterred.

They can offer Benteke European football next season - and substantially higher wages - on top of the chance to play regularly ahead of the World Cup.