The signing of Darren Bent has sent Villa fan message boards into a frenzy - and here on the official site we thought we'd give you a snapshot of the best comments.

We have a host of terrific unofficial forums - such as Vital Villa, Villa Talk, Heroes and Villains and Villa Blog - and all have been hot with reaction since news of Bent's impending arrival went public.

Fans have been writing on the forums for hours and hours as the star striker's move to Villa started to take shape.

Interest has been mounting and here on www.avfc.co.uk we bring you a cross-section of opinion from the various forums.

The England international hotshot's arrival at Villa has undoubtedly been the story of the January transfer window so far.

So it is not surprising that news of the former Sunderland and Tottenham striker's capture was greeted with jubilation amongst Villa supporters.

The claret and blue faithful are buzzing with excitement ahead of Bent's possible debut in front of his home supporters against Manchester City.

Here is a selection of the comments from fans reacting to the news of the sensational signing:

Arkvillan: "Him and Habby up top with the Fonz waiting in the wings. I'm a happy camper."

Jez_Villa: "We needed a goalscorer that is proven in the Premier League - Bent is that man."

Razor: "Great stuff! Thanks Randy!"

Dom_Wren: "Did not expect this when I logged on. (United States). Fair play - he's the best fit for RIGHT NOW. Well done to all involved."

GNeeUS: "UTV. Delighted by this. Onwards and upwards. Thank you, Randy and Gerard!!"

AValon: "I can't wipe the smile off my face.......The Mrs thinks I'm playing away."

Harrywrose1: "I'm happy with this. Proven goalscorer at the top level. Him and Gabby would be tasty."

Gompedyret: "Great news. Lots of money to pay, but that's what had to be done. Onwards and upwards! Can't wait to see Bent paired with Gabby up front. Potentially the most lethal pair in the league, hands down. Not to forget Delf and Weimann!"

Tamuff_Villa: "Wow, really excited at the prospect of having Bent up top next weekend."

Morley_crosses_to_Withe: "I've wanted us to sign Bent since he was at Charlton. Proper goalscorer. Proven in the PL."

ThunderPower_14: "This is absolutely fantastic news! Exactly what we need, and even better proof that Randy is backing Houllier in and still willing to invest in the side."

Commander: "This is ace! I haven't been this excited since the signings of Laursen and Bouma - I can't keep still haha!"

Packoman: "Really happy about this, very good player, but also shows a lot of ambition from the club. Hopefully this will be a turning point in our season."

BOF: "Proven Premier League prolific goalscorer in his prime. Not much else to say. That type of player costs money. Doubly so in January. What's not to like? It's a sensational signing if it comes off."

Pricey_1984: "Haven't been able to work since I read this news."

Holteendvillan84: "I'm chuffed I just hope it all goes through. People can say what they like - his scoring record speaks for itself. Fair play Randy for making the funds available."

Nigel: "As good as the signing of Bent is, it's bettered by the message this sends out....We are a club on the up once again!"

Pancho Villan: "Gobsmacked!"

Eaton_thevillafan: "Villa never fail to surprise me."

Nimmo: "Actually signing the kind of player that we are crying out for and being prepared to spend to get the right man in. I watched Bent yesterday and he missed a couple of good chances, but I was admiring his movement and the fact that he keeps getting in great positions."

Revua: "Someone pinch me! Darren Bent coming to Villa! I think he will have to go on the back of my shirt."

SKEGGY: "Bent will love the challenge at villa and prove that he deserves an England starting spot! Win, win situation."

68 Villain: Get in. Been waiting 10 years for this. Villa signing a proven goalscorer. Thank Jesus, God, Buddah, Allah, Paul McGrath."

Jake Findlay: "Can't wait for Saturday. He will make his debut on my 45th birthday!"

DanH1980: "I literally can't believe it." UptheVilla: "Well done to Randy and GH."

PaulTheVillan: "I've never doubted Randy Lerner."

PaulWinch: "Bloody hells bells!"

Kevin Dawson: "STUNNING deal."

ChicoHamiltonsPants: "Still in shock!!!!!!!"

Pearcey: "What a signing. Absolutely ecstatic on this news."

Make sure you're here on Saturday as Bent looks set to make his first appearance at Villa Park - click here for tickets.

Pictures from Neville Williams/Getty Images.