Sheffield Wednesday were linked with Bolton Wanderers’ Josh Vela 12 months ago.
Sheffield Wednesday haven’t had the best of times in the transfer market in recent times, resulting in a summer transfer embargo, but now they could have an opportunity to strike a potential bargain deal.
The Owls were linked with Bolton Wanderers’ Josh Vela this time last year and were among a clutch of clubs including Derby County, Leeds United and Brighton and Hove Albion keen on the midfielder (Daily Mail).
Vela ultimately remained at Bolton, where he was again the subject of speculation in the summer when Lancashire rivals Blackburn Rovers were linked with a move for the £5 million rated ace (The Sun).
Bolton, however, may now regret missing out on a bigger fee in the past as Vela’s contract expires next summer and the Lancashire club’s financial struggles have come to the fore over the past 24 hours.
The Trotters’ owner Ken Anderson told Bolton News how proposed takeover talks have stalled, while both Bolton players and staff haven’t been paid for November as more questions are asked of the club’s financial situation.
Wednesday have struggled this season and seemingly have a dearth of quality in midfield, with Barry Bannan a standout performer who often does the work of two players alongside the weaker Joey Pelupessy.
Vela has featured sporadically for Bolton this season but there is no denying his talent as the 24-year-old netted nine league goals from midfield during Phil Parkinson’s side’s promotion from League One in 2016-17.
The Bolton academy product doesn’t really suit the current direct style of play, while on the flip side a possession-based side such as Sheffield Wednesday could bring the best out of him.
Bolton can’t expect to receive a big fee for him in January with his contract expiring, yet the Trotters will know that it makes much more sense selling him now rather than losing him for free next summer.
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