Reds linked with Bent

Charlton and West Ham last night agreed a fee of £17m for the England striker but Bent turned down a move to Upton Park and that has alerted Rafael Benitez who wants to bring another striker to Anfield.

Charlton say they will only sell Bent to Liverpool if they match West Ham's £17m bid.

"We set a valuation for Darren and West Ham were the only club prepared to meet that valuation. We gave them permission to speak to Darren and he has decided not to join West Ham," said Charlton Chief Executive, Peter Varney.

"We look forward to Darren starting with us in the Championship next season."