Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says Darren Bent is a good signing for Aston Villa.
Ferguson is surprised that the deal could eventually cost Villa as much as £24million.
But Fergie, whose team face Villa at Old Trafford on Tuesday night, said: "The signing of Bent was an indication they weren't happy with their situation and were prepared to go to that level to get a player who can get a regular goal-scoring ratio."
Bent scored on his Villa debut in the victory over Manchester City and Fergie added: "Whatever you say about Bent, he's certainly got a reasonable goal ratio at all his clubs. He cost a lot of money but that will be justified if he gets them into a far-better position.
"When you are down there in the Premier League it's not easy to get out of it.
"But two victories can make a difference and they are getting their squad back after injuries.
"They've also signed Jean Makoun from Lyon and taken Kyle Walker from Tottenham on loan and they are looking pretty powerful at the moment."
