Bent failed to turn up as expected at Cardiff on Monday

Birmingham City have signed Marcus Bent from Charlton after the striker changed his mind over a move to Cardiff.

The 30-year-old had seemed set to join the Bluebirds but pulled out of talks after hearing the St Andrew's club were also interested.

Bent has cost the Championship side in excess of �1m and has agreed a three-year deal with his 11th senior club.

He spent last season on loan at Premier League side Wigan and becomes Alex McLeish's third signing of the summer.

Journeyman Bent scored seven goals in his time at the JJB Stadium and will add to the competition for places up front at St Andrew's.

He is the fifth striker at the club joining James McFadden, Cameron Jerome, Kevin Phillips and Gary O'Connor.