Cardiff close in on Bent

Cardiff are poised to complete the signing of striker Marcus Bent from Championship rivals Charlton.

The Bluebirds claim they have agreed a fee for the 30-year-old, who is expected to undergo a medical at Ninian Park tomorrow before joining up with their pre-season trip to Portugal.

Bent spent last season on loan at Wigan, scoring seven goals in the Premier League, but a permanent move to the JJB Stadium fell through.

Addicks manager Alan Pardew admitted Bent and fellow forward Chris Iwelumo are set to leave The Valley following his side’s 6-0 pre-season friendly win over Ebbsfleet on Saturday.

“Cardiff have expressed interest in Marcus, but at the moment he remains our player. There is interest in him from other clubs as well,” he said.

“We have some players leaving this weekend. Chris (Iwelumo) is possibly leaving and so could Marcus Bent.”

Iwelumo has been linked with a move to south London rivals Crystal Palace.