Championship and local rivals Blackburn and Bolton are set to battle for Leyton Orient star Macauley Bonne, according to respected journalist Alan Nixon.

The 23-year-old striker has been in fine form once again for the National League side, banging in 20 goals already this term to catch the attention of clubs in the higher tiers of the footballing pyramid.

And it would appear now that both Lancashire clubs are interested in signing Bonne, who would surely relish the chance of making a move to the Championship or League One should Bolton eventually drop into the third tier.

Bonne is the key man for Orient and they will not want to lose their star striker ahead of next season, however, their hands could be forced given the financial clout of both Championship clubs, despite the ongoing struggles at Bolton at the moment.

Blackburn on the other hand have adapted to life in the Championship with ease under Tony Mowbray, and they could well be ahead of their north west rivals if a bidding war does commence come the summer months.

Bonne, who has had spells with Colchester United and Woking before finding his feet with Orient, will no doubt be the subject of interest if he can add to his tally further in the final 10 games of the campaign.

The Verdict

I'd be amazed to see Bolton snap up a player like Bonne, but Blackburn might just be a good fit.

Bonne will no doubt love the chance at playing at a higher level, and if he can replicate the form he's shown lower down the footballing pyramid, then there's every chance he can be a big hit in the Championship.