Wolves eye Faye as Bennett moves

Wolves are in talks with Stoke about signing midfielder Amdy Faye – as they sold Elliott Bennett to Brighton.

The Senegal international, who is contracted until the end of the season, is available for a nominal sum and manager Mick McCarthy has discussed a possible transfer with Potters counterpart Tony Pulis about a deal for the 32-year-old.

A deal has been talked about between the clubs for some time and it could be one of possibly two deals Wolves complete before the transfer window shuts in 11 days' time.

Faye figured in 21 out of 28 of Stoke's Premier League games last season before undergoing back surgery.

He hasn't played since – even in pre-season – but has been building up his fitness ever since.

Crucially, he fits the bill for Wolves on two counts – offering the Premier League experience McCarthy has been craving, and also offering cover and competition for Karl Henry, the only real ballwinner in midfield.

Faye, who appeared in the 2002 World Cup, made his name with Auxerre before a £1.5m move to Portsmouth followed by £2m moves to Newcastle and Charlton followed by a loan spell at Rangers prior to joining Stoke, playing 213 games.

Right winger Bennett, 20, has completed his move to League One Brighton for an undisclosed sum with a sell-on.

The Telford-born wide man, who played two first team games for Wolves, has signed a three-year contract with the Seagulls.

Bennett was an ever-present on loan at League Two Bury last season.

Chief executive Jez Moxey said: "Elliott is at the stage where he needs regular first team football, and, having reached the Premier League, we felt Elliott wasn't going to be getting that here at this stage.

"So this is a move that works out for all parties and we wish him all the best."

Wolves have been linked with a move for Bournsmouth defender Jason Pearce.

• Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock has escaped punishment for his reaction following last weekend’s clash at Bristol City but the Football Association have written to chairman Simon Jordan asking him to explain his comments. Palace were denied a perfectly valid goal by referee Rob Shoebridge during Saturday's Coca-Cola Championship match at Ashton Gate, leaving Warnock and Jordan furious.

By TIM NASH