Fulham 'scrap £5m deal for Aston Villa's Darren Bent'

Fulham have reportedly withdrawn from a deal to sign Aston Villa striker Darren Bent.

The Cottagers were believed to be favourites to sign the out-of-favour forward following reports that they were prepared to lodge a £5m bid.

Despite being close to clinching the deal, Fulham have pulled out due to Bent's £80,000-a-week wage demands, according to The Express.

It appears that Fulham's decision has paved the way for fellow Premier League outfit Newcastle United to make a bid.