Bent swap deal for Turner denied by Hull

Phil Brown has quashed speculation linking Hull with a move for Tottenham's Darren Bent whilst also denying high-rated defender Michael Turner could be heading in the other direction.

The future of England international Bent remains unclear after talk of a move to Sunderland that seemed certain at the start of the week has now quietened down.

Turner, meanwhile, is believed to have attracted interest from a host of Premier League clubs following some fine performances in the Tigers' defence last season.

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has been linked with a move for the player, with reports suggesting a player-plus-cash deal could be on the cards.

However Brown, whose side will tackle Redknapp's Spurs in the final of the Barclays Asia Trophy on Friday, insists no discussions have taken place.

"We have been subject to an awful lot of speculation in the close season and there is no secret that we are trying to improve the squad," he said.

"There are a lot of mischievous people out there that are trying to create things that are not there.

"I had a drink with Harry this afternoon and all we talked about was where he sees Tottenham this season or where I see Hull this season.

"There was no talk over exchanges of players or transfer bids or any of that."

Hull scraped through to the final of the Asia Trophy last night after winning 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw.

The heat and humidity in Beijing clearly took its toll on the Hull players, who found themselves on the back foot for much of the game after taking the lead through Geovanni's fine strike.

But Brown was pleased with the performance of his players given the testing conditions at the Workers Stadium.

"It is always difficult coming into any game when you don't know the opposition, that's no disrespect to Guoan as they were tremendous tonight," he added.

"It was good to rekindle a bit of desire that went towards the end of last season and I think we showed that today.

"It just shows how far we have come with the levels of commitment and fitness, especially tonight in searing heat and it is testament to three weeks of hard work in Italy and Hull."