Aston Villa have dismissed claims from Newcastle United they're close to a deal over Darren Bent.

A club spokesman said last night there are no talks between Villa and Newcastle for the striker, who is available at £6m, says the Daily Express.

Joe Kinnear, Newcastle's director of football, is under pressure to make signings, but the only offer Villa have had for Bent is from Fulham for £4m.

That was turned down and there has been no revised bid from them.