City boss Phil Parkinson was today aiming to beat off competition from a number of rival clubs and tie up the signature of Charlton striker Paul Benson.

As revealed exclusively in the T&A last Friday, the Bantams want Benson on loan until January, when they aim to make the deal permanent for a fee worth more than £100,000.

Parkinson was working until late last night to seal the deal before today’s 5pm emergency loan deadline.

Having Benson on board in time for Saturday’s trip to Gillingham would be a major boost to City following last weekend’s home defeat to Rotherham.

Yet the 32-year-old is also being tracked by Dagenham and Notts County, forcing Parkinson into an anxious wait.

The City boss told the T&A last night: “There are several clubs who want to sign him and it makes things complicated.

“He’s a proven goal-scorer at this level, and is a League One player really, but we’re working hard to try and get him on board before the deadline.”

Parkinson also confirmed that he is not looking to sign any other players on loan.

* Read full story in today’s Telegraph & Argus