Bent keen on Newcastle move if Pardew stays.

Darren Bent remains keen on a move to Newcastle United, although he will seek reassurances manager Alan Pardew is committed to staying at the club following the controversial appointment of Joe Kinnear as director of football.

Bent returned from his honeymoon over the weekend and will look to sort out his future quickly, although Aston Villa — who are still hopeful they can hold on to Christian Benteke in this transfer window — have still not received any bids.

That has more to do with their asking price than a lack of interest in the England international. Newcastle United and Fulham would both like to sign the 29-year-old, but they are not willing to pay more than £6 million for a player who was effectively transfer-listed when he was told by manager Paul Lambert he could leave this summer.
Bent is intrigued by the possibility of playing for Newcastle, despite previously playing for their bitter rivals Sunderland, and has a good relationship with Pardew following their time together at Charlton.

But the striker is wary of the uncertainty surrounding Newcastle following the arrival of Kinnear and fears Pardew holds little sway in terms of recruitment. There is also the risk the manager could quit or be forced out.

Culled from The Telegraph.