Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has reportedly firmed up his interest in Charlton striker Darren Bent.

Reds manager Benitez is checking out the availability of the other names on his shortlist after learning Samuel Eto'o has decided to stay at Barcelona.

England striker Bent, 23, hit 15 goals last season as the Addicks battled in vain to survive in the Premiership.

But although Benitez has plenty of funds available, the Spaniard is likely to baulk at Charlton's £14million valuation of their prize asset.

West Ham, Tottenham and Valencia have also been linked with Bent, and Charlton are keen to sell early in the window to boost their transfer kitty.