ARGYLE IN TALKS WITH CANADIAN STAR

Bent, who has 20 international caps, was targetted by Sturrock during his time in charge of both Dundee United and St Johnstone and could be joined at Argyle by former Hull City favourite Gary Brabin.

"We are in negotiations with the player and that's as far as it has gone," Sturrock said.

"I targetted him during my time at St Johnstone and Dundee United but getting a work permit proved a problem."

His work permit application was rejected on the grounds his country's world ranking was not high enough, but Sturrock hopes this will not be a problem this time around.

He is available on a Bosman free after his contract with the Colorado Rapids expired in January, but The Pilgrims face stiff competition from First Division Walsall, who are also keen on landing him.

Bent almost signed for First Division Preston last winter following a successful trial at Deepdale. However, boss David Moyes was forced to pull the plug on the deal as his application for a work permit was again rejected.

Meanwhile, tough-tackling midfielder Brabin is training with the Third Division side.

The former Doncaster and Blackpool midfielder is understood to be training with Argyle with a view to a permanent deal.