Charlton striker Darren Bent has turned down the chance to join West Ham United.The Addicks star had been in talks with former manager Alan Curbishley on Thursday after a £16million deal had been agreed between the two clubs.
However, the England international has opted against a move to East London, leaving West Ham frustrated in their pursuit of Curbishley's former charge.
The Hammers are the only club to have matched Charlton's asking price for Bent, and it remains to be seen whether their failure to agree terms with the 23-year-old will provoke rival suitors to make their move.
Tottenham are understood to be keen on the Valley star, whilst Liverpool and Valencia have also been linked with Bent following Charlton's relegation.
"We set a valuation for Darren and West Ham were the only club prepared to meet that valuation," Charlton chief executive Peter Varney told the club's official website.
"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."
West Ham chairman Eggert Magnusson revealed earlier on Thursday he was hoping to announce a major signing in the coming days but, if Bent was the mystery man, then the Icelandic businessman may have to rethink his plans.
A Hammers spokesman has confirmed that the club will now be pursuing alternative targets after Bent's snub.
"A fee had been agreed between West Ham and Charlton but it was not possible to reach an agreement with the player," said a club spokesman.
"West Ham have been considering a number of options in terms of a new striker for the club and will now be pursuing alternatives."
Source: Sky Sports
http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?hlid=472031&CPID=8&clid=21&lid=2&title=Hammers'+Bent+bid+collapses&channel=football_home&Wow. He turned down a weekly wage offer of 80,000!
