Rovers eager for Bentley deal

Blackburn chairman John Williams wants David Bentley to sign a new contract, despite the winger penning a four-and-a-half-year deal last year.

Bentley, 23, is tied to the club until the summer of 2011 but Rovers are eager to offer him an extended deal on vastly improved terms in an attempt to stave off interest from rival clubs.

Negotiations are ongoing but Williams is confident the player will sign soon. "David signed a new contract a year ago but needs a new one now," Williams said in the Times.

He added: "You have to accept that sometimes. I would hope we could keep a player like David Bentley happy at Blackburn."

Bentley has been in excellent form this season for Mark Hughes' side, scoring nine goals in all competitions as well becoming a regular member of the England squad.

Rovers are also in contract talks with striker Benni McCarthy, midfielder Morten Gamst Pedersen and full-back Stephen Warnock.

Williams added: "We're not at an advanced stage with any of the players, but there are no stumbling blocks.

"Mark believes it's the best squad he's had in his time here and he wants to build on it but keep as many of the lads as we can.

"I hope it's not blasé to say the grass isn't always greener and there are not many players who have left here in my time that would say they didn't enjoy their time here.

"It's a good club that's in the top half of the Premier League, but how long we can hold on to certain players remains to be seen."