Liverpool and Newcastle are expected to make late bids for Charlton striker Darren Bent.

The Guardian says the Addicks are willing to soften their stance over Bent's asking price and are close to accepting a £15 million bid from Tottenham, plus £1 million in add-ons, for the England man.

With Owen's Newcastle future uncertain a Charlton source suggested Sam Allardyce, backed by the club's new owner, Mike Ashley, could yet launch a late bid for Bent.

The same goes for Manchester City, in the light of Thaksin Shinawatra's takeover. Liverpool are believed to have made inquiries through Bent's adviser, Neil Fewings, but he would not be guaranteed first-team football there, which Bent sees as crucial to his international career.