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Report: Bolton Wanderers talk to free-agent trio, including ex-Newcastle United winger Sammy Ameobi

Bolton Wanderers manager Phil Parkinson celebrates promotion after the mtach (Reuters)
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Bradford City could regret losing out on promotion with Bolton Wanderers set to take two of their key players.

Bolton Wanderers manager Phil Parkinson celebrates promotion after the mtachBolton Wanderers manager Phil Parkinson

Bolton Wanderers’ preparations for the new Championship season appear to have been ramped up a notch.

Bolton News claims that manager Phil Parkinson is attempting to advance negotiations to tie down star men Filipe Morais and Jay Spearing to new contracts.

The midfield duo played a hugely important role as The Trotters claimed automatic promotion in second place behind Sheffield United, so it would pose a major problem if they were to leave on a free when their contracts expire this summer.

Bolton Wanderers' Filipe Morais (L) has a shot saved by Oldham Athletic's Connor RipleyFilipe Morais could be joined by two former Bradford City team-mates

And while Parkinson is attempting to keep his existing squad together, it appears that he is trying to enhance it too. Bolton News adds that the club are hoping to seal at least one new signing in the coming days as they continue talks with free-agent trio Sammy Ameobi, Tony McMahon and Stephen Darby.

Ameobi was released by Newcastle United earlier this week and The Macron appears to be the logical next destination. After all, the rangy wideman played 20 games on loan at Bolton last season and his creativity and directness was missed when his parent club recalled him in January.

Bolton Wanderers' Sammy Ameobi scores their fourth goalBolton Wanderers’ Sammy Ameobi scores one of the goals of the season against Gillingham

McMahon and Darby, however, played important roles in Bradford City’s back four as Stuart McCall’s side exceeded expectations and reached the League One play-off final.

Despite losing to Millwall at Wembley, it appears that the experienced duo could be playing Championship football next season anyway.

Bradford's Tony McMahon in action with Millwall's Shane FergusonBradford’s Tony McMahon