Spurs favourites for Bent move
Bent is reportedly also a target for Liverpool
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Friday, 15, Jun 2007 10:15
Tottenham look set to land Darren Bent after the striker rejected a move to West Ham.
The Charlton star had seemed certain to reunite with former boss Alan Curbishley with the Hammers after a £17 million deal was agreed.
But Bent dramatically changed his mind, making Spurs the favourites to sign the England forward.
The Addicks will have to lower their asking price with Spurs unwilling to splash out £17 million.
Peter Varney, Charlton's chief executive, said the club hoped to keep hold of Bent.
"We set a valuation for Darren and West Ham were the only club prepared to meet that valuation," Varney said.
"This morning we gave them permission to speak to Darren, which he did, and he has decided not to join West Ham."
"We look forward to Darren starting with us in the Championship next season, which is a massive boost to our chance of returning to the Premier League."
The Addicks are believed to have accepted the Hammers' offer for £16 million-plus midfielder Hayden Mullins.
A West Ham spokesman said: "A fee had been agreed between West Ham and Charlton but it was not possible to reach an agreement with the player.
"West Ham have been considering a number of options in terms of a new striker for the club and will now be pursuing alternatives."
Despite a season dogged by injuries, Bent bagged 15 goals for Alan Pardew's side last season.