Analysing the Transfer Gossip – 27th June (Part 1): Real Madrid, Inter, Liverpool and more

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has given director of football Joe Kinnear the names of Aston Villa striker Darren Bent, 29, and West Ham defender James Tomkins, 24, as the club look to strengthen before the start of the season.

Darren Bent

What’s the story? Newcastle have a very talented squad that underachieved and was misused last year. They don’t need much to get themselves back in that top six battle but these are two areas where they possibly do. Centre back and striker depth are logical additions.

Does it make sense? Tomkins doesn’t seem like he’d be atop the list really. He’s decent but his weaknesses are the same as what they already have. He’s basically the same player as Steven Taylor. Bent is a strong finisher who has always scored goals and is one of the best bargains on the market.

Is the price right? Bent could probably be had for around £6m or so which is good value for 15 goals. Tomkins would be much more expensive. He’s not worth it, but they’d have to look at £8m plus considering they are buying from West Ham.

Will it happen? 6/10: Bent – Connection to Sunderland won’t be popular and he won’t be coming to sit on the bench so where does that leave Cisse? 4/10: Tomkins – Surely too much money for no upgrade.