BENT TO COMPLETE SPURS SWITCH - REPORT
Posted 22/06/07 12:59
Darren Bent is reportedly expected to complete a £16 million move to Spurs in the next week.
Charlton had been holding out for the £17 million price agreed with West Ham for the striker earlier in June, before Bent pulled out of the deal.
However, the Guardian reports that the Addicks have agreed a fee of £15 million, with another £1 million in 'success related payments' for the England striker.
However, the deal could be scuppered if Liverpool's chase for Atletico Madrid forward Fernando Torres fails, as Rafael Benitez has lined up Bent as an alternative target.
The Guardian also speculates that doubts over the future of Michael Owen and Obafemi Martins could lead to a bid from Newcastle, while Thaksin Shinawatra's takeover of Manchester City will inevitably lead them to be linked with the striker.
The move is likely to cast doubt over Jermain Defoe's future at White Hart Lane, with Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov currently established as the top two strikers at the club.
Bent is a more versatile option for Spurs boss Martin Jol, who is currently hamstrung by Defoe and Keane's apparent inability to play alongside each other.
Bent provides a more physical option, and has often played as a lone-striker in his time at Charlton.
If Bent does sign for Jol's side, he will be on a contract considerably less than the £75,000 he was reportedly offered at West Ham.
Spurs have a rigid wage structure in place, with Robbie Keane believed to be the club's top-earner on £50,000.