Bolton Wanderers could see key midfielder Josh Sheehan depart this January with multiple League One clubs interested in the 30-year-old.
The former Newport County man made the switch to the Trotters back in 2021 on a free transfer and has been an excellent servant to the club, with 173 appearances to his name across all competitions.
Sheehan Targeted
According to Pete O’Rourke, ‘a number’ of League One clubs are interested in a move for Sheehan, who has 18 months left on his contract at the Toughsheet Community Stadium.
The Wales international, who is optimistic about his chances of representing his nation at this summer’s World Cup, has formed a formidable partnership with Xavier Simons at the heart of Steven Schumacher’s plans, but missed out on Bolton’s match against Leyton Orient through injury.
Sheehan has played in 23 of Wanderers’ League One matches this season, starting 16 of them, and has provided three goals and as many assists, including a crucial strike to sink arch rivals Wigan Athletic earlier this month.
Speculation around a midfield departure has rumbled over the winter window, with Aaron Morley previously linked with a permanent return to Wycombe Wanderers.
Is A Sale Realistic?
As much as some sides will want to sign Josh Sheehan given his experience at this level, it feels impossible that Bolton Wanderers would sanction an exit for such a key player.
While he is not performing at the highs seen two seasons ago which saw him provide 12 assists as part of their promotion push which came undone at Wembley against Oxford United, he has been vital to keeping the Trotters’ consistency.
While competition for starting time arrived in the summer with Ethan Erhahon’s arrival from Lincoln City, the 30-year-old has been a key cog in Steven Schumacher’s side as they once again push for promotion back into the Championship.
Should the unthinkable happen, Bolton should be able to turn a nice profit on a player they signed on a free transfer four years ago.
Who Might Make A Move?
While the teams interested in a move have not been named by O’Rourke’s report, there could be a few potential destinations within League One which need a player like Sheehan in their ranks.
One good option could be Leyton Orient, with Richie Wellens’ side looking to build back up to their highs of last season, and could serve as a good companion to Tyreeq Bakinson.
Wycombe Wanderers could be another destination, with the Chairboys yet to act on their interest in Aaron Morley and can enable Luke Leahy to play in a more advanced role for Michael Duff’s men.
