Stoke have signed Aston Villa striker John Carew on loan until the end of the season after he turned down the chance to join West Brom.
The Norway international had appeared set for West Brom but Stoke made a late move and finalised the paperwork on Friday morning in time for him to be included in the squad for Saturday's Premier League trip to Fulham.
Carew's arrival has increased speculation that Ricardo Fuller could join Sunderland as a replacement for Bent, but the Jamaican trained with the rest of Potters squad on Friday morning.
"This is a fantastic signing," manager Tony Pulis told Stoke's website. "John's record speaks for itself because he has scored goals at the highest level throughout his career.
"As well as the experience he has gained at international level he has played for some top clubs across Europe and performed in the Champions League for many seasons, including an appearance in the final for Valencia.
"On top of that he was Aston Villa's leading scorer last season with 17 goals so we have acquired a striker with an outstanding pedigree."
