Darren Bent has turned down a move to West Ham United, Charlton confirmed tonight.

Charlton were to receive £16million plus Hayden Mullins for the 23-year-old England international, who has top-scored for Charlton for the past two Premiership campaigns.

But after negotiations with the Hammers, the striker has rejected a switch to Upton Park and the chance to be reunited with the man who brought him to The Valley in August 2004, current Hammers boss Alan Curbishley.

Charlton chief executive Peter Varney said on the club's official website: "We set a valuation for Darren and West Ham were the only club prepared to meet that valuation.

"This morning we gave them permission to speak to Darren, which he did, and he has decided not to join West Ham."

The news is sure to alert Liverpool and Tottenham - known admirers of Bent - while La Liga giants Valencia have also been linked with the striker.

But Varney now expects Bent to stay at The Valley.

He said: "We look forward to Darren starting with us in the Championship next season, which is a massive boost to our chance of returning to the Premier League."