Sky Sports journalist Michael Bridge told The Transfer Tavern that Christian Benteke was going to be released by Crystal Palace until his end of season form earned him a new deal.

The Belgian striker had scored just three goals in his first 17 Premier League appearances last season but enjoyed a blistering end to the season to reach double figures for the first time in four years.

Benteke ended up netting seven times in his final 13 league outings, including goals against Spurs, Chelsea, and Arsenal to help Palace finish 14th.

Prior to penning a contract extension, the 30-year-old was on course to end his five-year affiliation with the Eagles, with his red-hot campaign-ending form eventually proving decisive.

Benteke's Crystal Palace career has been largely forgetful, scoring just six goals across 75 games in a three-season period at one point.

And with those uninspiring goalscoring numbers in mind, Bridge told The Transfer Tavern that the former Aston Villa frontman, who featured just once at Euro 2020 for Belgium, was on the verge of becoming a free agent:

"Christian Benteke's form earned him a new contract, let's just get that clear.

"He was going to be one of those that was going. Benteke would have gone elsewhere, but he was impressive last season."