Bulgarian Petrov "Sweetener" in Manchester City, Tottenham Deal

Manchester City are interested in Tottenham winger David Bentley and could bid GBP 8 M for the 25-year-old in a deal that will include Bulgarian Martin Petrov, British media reported.

Winger Martin Petrov was agonisingly close to becoming a Spurs player in the summer after being consistenyly left on the substitutes' bench by Mark Hughes. The two clubs started negotiations on the last day of the transfer window, but failed to reach an agreement.

Now the Bulgarian is believed to be used as a sweetener for the deal, which is widely viewed as a good one for both clubs as it will be a chance to freshen up the two players who have fallen out of favour at their current homes.

The reports come a week after Manchester City boss Mark Hughes confirmed the club is in talks with Martin Petrov about a new deal, with the Bulgaria winger's current contract expiring at the end of this season.

"We've sat down and talked about a new deal. Martin's in the last year of his contract and I'm sure we're going to do something there," Hughes said.

The manager is expected to offer the new contract at the beginning of January.