Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke can be the "main man" for Liverpool next season, according to Robbie Fowler.
The Reds have been heavily linked with the Belgian forward, but are so far refusing to meet the £32.5million release clause in Benteke’s Villa contract.
Benteke, 24, has two years to run on his current deal and is keen to stay in the Premier League, but wants to play for a club in Europe, according to his agent Eris Kismet.
Liverpool have signed Burnley striker Danny Ings, but Brendan Rodgers is still keen to strengthen his forward line with the futures of Rickie Lambert, Fabio Borini and Mario Balotelli all far from assured.
And former Kop king Fowler is sure that Benteke is the right man for Rodgers.
"The striker issue is a big thing," Fowler told the Liverpool Echo.
"We didn’t have anyone who scored 10 Premier League goals last year and I can’t remember the last time that happened at Liverpool.
"It’s important we get a proven goalscorer and of the names being bandied about I’d go for Benteke. I think he’s excellent.
"I know there are other top strikers out there and probably more prolific scorers. But in terms of all-round play - strength, speed, physicality, finishing - I think Benteke could be the main man for Liverpool.
"I think we cross more balls into the box than any club in the league and I think Christian says he feeds off crosses. There’s no point going to a club where they don’t cross the ball."
The prolific Fowler, who had two spells with Liverpool, is confident that Benteke has enough in his game to become a superstar at Anfield.
"I've watched him a lot and he’s not just a targetman," added Fowler.
"He can hold the ball well and bring others into play but he’s also mobile and keeps defenders on their toes.
"Before he got his injury I was very impressed with him and I was hoping we would sign him then. He had a slow start after getting back fit but under Tim Sherwood his form was superb."
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