FORMER England Under 21 international Marcus Bent believes Blackburn Rovers have the foundations in place to become the next Leeds United.

Rovers' new £2.1 million signing has been hugely impressed by the emphasis on youth at Ewood.

And, with the likes of Matt Jansen, David Dunn and Damien Duff already firmly established at Rovers, he believes the club has the potential to emulate the revolution at Elland Road.

"With the youth they've got coming through I think they can go a long way," said Bent.

"Hopefully, we can take that on and become another Leeds."

Rovers have become Bent's fifth club in his short career.

But he insists he has now found the perfect stage to show off his talents.

"I'm not a bad boy -- I've tended to move between clubs because they've needed the money.

"But Blackburn have got a lot more financial backing behind them and they are looking for bigger and better things.

"And, the way they are going at the moment, I think they will do that.

"I've grown up a lot over the last couple of years and I've got quite a few games under my belt as well as a few goals as well."

Bent is looking forward to the prospect of renewing acquaintances with Matt Jansen after their days together at Crystal Palace.