England

Reports: Darren Bent And Sunderland To Open Contract Talks

The Spurs front man is keen to talk to Steve Bruce about a move north.

Jul 3, 2009 8:50:59 AM

EPL:Darren Bent, Tottenham Hotspur v Newcastle United (PA)

Tottenham Hotspur striker Darren Bent is set to open contract talks with Steve Bruce over a move to Sunderland.

The former Charlton man has been a long-term target for the Wearsiders but it is believed Bent was not keen to join under the former regimes of Roy Keane or Ricky Sbragia.

The Newcastle Evening Chronicle reports that the addition of Steve Bruce as manager and the stability of American billionaire Ellis Short has made Sunderland a much more attractive prospect.

Whilst a fee is yet to be agreed it is believed Bent is available for much less than the £16.5 million Tottenham paid Charlton for his signature in 2007, it is also reported that talks could be opened early next week.

Aston Villa have also made enquiries over the England striker's availability but he is not believed to be keen on a move to Villa park for fear of finding himself behind John Carew, Emilie Heskey and Gabby Agbonlahor in the pecking order, and in a similar position to that in which he currently finds himself.

Sunderland would appear to be in pole position to secure Bent's signature, but will need to negotiate a fee with Spurs, who are pushing for Kenwyne Jones to be involved as part of a swap deal, something the Black Cats are reportedly not too enthusiastic about.

David Kifford, Goal.com

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Reports: Darren Bent And Sunderland To Open Contract Talks

The Spurs front man is keen to talk to Steve Bruce about a move north.

Jul 3, 2009 8:50:59 AM

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