Birmingham City FC on Monday looked to have scuppered Cardiff City’s proposed move for Charlton Athletic striker Marcus Bent.
The Bluebirds were expected to complete the signing of the much-travelled 30-year-old yesterday afternoon, but he returned to The Valley last night, having apparently had his head turned by a last-minute move from Blues.
A statement on the Bluebirds’ official website read: “Shortly before Marcus Bent was due to arrive for his medical and complete his move to Cardiff City, we were informed that he had changed his mind and asked Charlton Athletic for permission to speak to Birmingham City.
“Whilst at this stage we are unaware of whether he has been given permission to talk to Birmingham City, we only want players who are committed to Cardiff City Football Club and therefore have withdrawn from the deal.
“However disappointing this may be, we are completely focused on bringing in the right players prior to the new season starting.”
Blues saw their pre-season friendly in Austria last night postponed after three days of persistent rain and it will now be played tonight, weather permitting.
