I just cant deceide on Bent, I recognise he is a good player and that, but the price is ridiculous and what with all the permetations of what it could mean to Defoe, who I want to stay (no point throwing 18 goals a season away) just muddies the waters.
But for my forepenneth and apologies if it contradicts any previous line ive given on Bent, but with the benefit of passage of time and recognition I keep changing my mind I think this is the scenario now.
Levy is playing the long game or hardball or whatever you want to call it. We've seen this before from him, he has his policy and is a tough negotiator who doesnt panic buy, he will pay money when a target really is wanted ala Chimbonda but usually holds firm until the seller comes to him.
He knows that Bent has set his mind on Spurs and has already rejected a financially fantastic offer he will not likely match elsewhere, certainly not at Spurs. So in a sense we are in a driving seat.
Levy also knows that Charlton as a relegated side sooner or later are going to have to acknowledge the harsh realities of Championship football, especially with a want away striker on big money.
As the window approaches Levy is banking on Charlton blinking first and the balance of power shifting towards Spurs and we will secure him at a valuation nearer to ours than theres, perhaps the deal will include appearances or other success add-ons to boost the price but the starting lump will be much lower than the cited £17m, probably even as low as £7m (still more than double what Charlton paid). Mido may even be part of the bargain (IMO).
Bent will fit into our wage structure as he isnt the sort of player we would break it over. But he will be a higher earner in the squad.
Anyway thats how I see it.
My current thinking is if we get Bent for nearer £7-8m than £12-17m mentioned its good business. Anything more is overpaying.
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