Bent rejects Hammers move

Charlton have confirmed tonight that Darren Bent has turned down a move to West Ham.

The 23-year-old England striker was expected to sign for the Hammers tomorrow after the two clubs agreed a fee for the player.

Charlton were to receive £16million plus Hayden Mullins for the 23-year-old England international, who has top-scored for Charlton for the past two Premiership campaigns.

But after negotiations with the Hammers, the striker has rejected a switch to Upton Park and the chance to be reunited with the man who brought him to The Valley in 2004, current Hammers boss Alan Curbishley.

Charlton chief executive Peter Varney told his club’s official website, www.cafc.co.uk: “We set a valuation for Darren and West Ham were the only club prepared to meet that valuation.

“This morning we gave them permission to speak to Darren, which he did, and he has decided not to join West Ham.

“We therefore 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.”

However, Tottenham may have other ideas, having expressed an interest in the former Ipswich striker.