'Do it' - Exclusive: Darren Bent reacts as Leeds in advanced talks over 'Bargain' new signing

Darren Bent insists that Leeds United will be getting a "bargain" by signing Illan Meslier for £5million this summer.

The former Aston Villa and England striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge, has lauded the Whites for moving quickly and getting the 19-year-old loanee's future sorted.

As revealed exclusively by Football Insider, the Whites have told Lorient that they intend to push on and trigger the £5million purchase clause in Meslier's contract, and talks are at an advanced stage.

This site has since revealed the shot-stopper's stance on remaining at Leeds past the end of his loan spell.

Bent believes that Marcelo Bielsa's men are doing the right thing committing to a deal now, admitting plans can change significantly when teams secure promotion to the Premier League.

Bent told Football Insider: "It's a snippet and I'm always for getting a deal done early, especially in regards of being a player.

"Leeds, £5million, it's a bargain and I'd do it straight away but you know what it's like, in the Championship, you have to pick and choose what you're going to do.

"You go to the Premier League, all of a sudden you're shopping in a different market. Although there might have been a deal in place for this goalkeeper, someone might offer you someone else and you think: 'Hmm, maybe we could do a little bit better.'"

Meslier has played just three times for Leeds since his temporary move last summer, his debut coming in the FA Cup defeat to Arsenal.

He has started the last two Championship games in place of the suspended Kiko Casilla, keeping clean sheets in both.

In other Leeds United news, Bent has suggested that some senior stars may be "coasting" after the training ground lockdown.