Boss Jim Magilton has admitted that the breakdown of Darren Bent's proposed move to West Ham was a massive frustration for the Blues. The £17 million switch would have netted the Blues £2.88 million from a sell-on clause in the 2005 deal which saw the England striker join Charlton from Town.

Magilton says the cash would have given his transfer budget a huge bost: “We would now be able to pinpoint the targets we want to strengthen our squad with.

“It looked as though the deal was complete, but Darren apparently changed his mind and we must now hope that a new deal comes off to give us cash that would make a massive difference to Ipswich Town.”

Magilton says Blackburn are likely to be watching the situation and progress on the Bent deal is likely to have some bearing on negotiations regarding Town's attempts to sign Franny Jeffers: “I am sure Blackburn are looking at our situation and sitting tight for the time being.”

The Blues have had two bids turned down by Rovers, the second believed to be £500,000 plus add-ons, with a third offer - claimed to be £1 million including add-ons - reported to be on the table.

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