Bolton hoping to splash Cahill cash to boost survival chances

With Gary Cahill finally completing his move to Chelsea this week, Owen Coyle now has some funds available to freshen up his faltering Bolton squad.

While astronomical transfer fees won’t be allowed by chairman Phil Gartside, he is expected to allow Coyle adequate funds to replace his outgoing defender, and add some drive to a midfield that is lacking dynamism in the absence of Stuart Holden.

Coyle’s initial priority is to bring in a replacement for his prized asset Cahill, and his chief target is New York Red Bulls’ centre half Tim Ream.

The USA international is expected to agree personal terms after training with the Trotters for the past two weeks, leaving it up to the authorities to decide whether or not the £2.5m move can go through.

Ream would need to apply for a work permit to be allowed to complete his switch, having made just seven international appearances to date, but the fact that Bolton are ready to pay a substantial fee for his services should stand them in good stead for a successful application.

Having confirmed an interest in the American defender though, Coyle has moved to distance himself from an approach for Tottenham forward Giovani dos Santos.

Mexican dos Santos had been proposed as a possible signing to add an edge to Bolton’s attack, but the £8m price tag has put the former Burnley boss off making any move.

He is looking to strengthen higher up the pitch though, with Wanderers being linked with a move for promising creative midfielder Adam Clayton.

The 22-year-old maestro has impressed since making his move to Leeds permanent, but contract talks have stalled at Elland Road, alerting Bolton to consider a £2m transfer.

However, the Reebok Stadium outfit would face stiff competition for the former Man City youngster, with Stoke, Wigan and Fulham also interested in securing his services.