Bolton Wanderers are preparing to lose skipper David Wheater, despite him making an apparent U-turn on a move to Kilmarnock, as reported by the Bolton News.

The 32-year-old has been with the Trotters for eight-and-a-half years but is on the verge of making a move to ambitious League Two side Salford City. It's thought he was on his way to discuss a contract with Kilmarnock, who could offer Europa League football, but that he was unwilling to uproot his family.

However, he's still set to leave the University of Bolton Stadium with the club unable to give him assurances about his future whilst still in the grip of a takeover.

That's prompted Graham Alexander's ambitious side to put in a bid for the former Middlesbrough man, with a move looking highly likely. They were promoted from the National League last season and are amongst the favourites for a promotion challenge this season as well.

Redcar-born Wheater came through the youth ranks with Middlesbrough, playing 157 times for them and earning England honours up to Under 21 level. He moved to Bolton in 2010 and has racked up over 200 senior appearances since then.

The Verdict

This is a big blow for Bolton, but before we look at that what about the coup that Salford are about to pull off? One minute Wheater could be playing in Europe and making trips to Parkhead and Ibrox, the next he's moving to a side who as yet haven't played a single minute in the EFL.

It's a big signing for them, even at 32-years-old he has a lot to offer.

Sadly for the Trotters, it's another player they have to replace, another key man departing and leaving them short of numbers. It's going to be a long, hard season and if the takeover isn't completed soon it's not going to start well for them

With a 12-point deduction, the one thing they do need is have a decent start.