Analysing the transfer gossip – 29th July (Part Two): Bale, Pastore, Bent and more

Fulham are set to move for Aston Villa striker Darren Bent, 29, after discovering Italy forward Pablo Osvaldo, 27, intends to stay at Roma.

Full story: the Times

What’s the story? Bent is just the type of poacher Fulham need, an ideal foil for the skillful Berbatov.

Does it make sense? It’d be surprising if Osvaldo didn’t want to leave Roma, given he is despised by his own fans for various antics, but Bent is possibly a better fit. A guarantee of 15 goals, maybe 20 if he gets on a roll.

Is the price right? Villa might ask for £4 million or so, needing to get his wages off their bill. It’s good value.

Will it happen? 7/10 – I’m baffled as to why no one has picked Bent up yet. Perhaps his high pay is a problem, which could also cause Fulham issues.