CHARLTON manager Alan Curbishley has started his promised team restructuring by splashing £3 million on Ipswich Town's England Under-21 striker Darren Bent.

The 21-year-old signed a four-year deal with the Addicks after rejecting Ipswich attempts to keep him at Portman Road following the club's failure to return to the Barclays Premier League via the play-offs.

"As soon as I meet with the chairman Richard Murray and the manager Alan Curbishley I had no doubt whatsover that I wanted to play for Charlton," said Bent who was also hotly pursued by newly-promoted Sunderland.

He added: "I have been impressed by Charlton's plans, both on and off the field."

The signing marks a triumph of perseverance by Curbishley, who made two attempts last season to bring Bent to The Valley.

"It goes without saying that we're all absolutely delighted that Darren has agreed to join us," said the Addicks boss.

Charlton are now expected to turn their attentions to Inter-Mlian's 25-year-old Uruguayan central defender Gonzalo Sorondo who spent last season on loan with Crystal Palace and has expressed a wish to remain in the Premier League following Palace's relegation.

Charlton opened transfer talks with Inter-Milan earlier this week.