There could be good news on the horizon at Bolton despite the club still being embroiled in turmoil, according to journalist Marc Iles.

Oldham are the latest team to cancel a friendly with the Trotters after the Bolton players last week refused to take part in a match against Preston due to an ongoing dispute over a lack of pay.

Although pre-season has stalled, things off the pitch appear to be progressing. Marc Iles reports that Football Ventures' proposed takeover is closer to completion, and could be finalised soon.

This is the news Bolton fans have been waiting for over the last few months, as well as the players and staff at the club, who can expect to be paid on time on a regular basis once again.

The takeover will allow the club to get up and running, and if it does happen soon then there could still be time to bring in reinforcements ahead of the new season, which is a couple of weeks away.

The Verdict

It is a concern that friendlies are continuing to be cancelled as it indicates the players are still not being paid, and without game time the players will not undergo a sufficient pre-season.

The takeover talks have been ongoing for some time and need a conclusion soon if the club is to be ready for the new season, as without it administration will continue and the club may have to field its youth players.

There is still no timeline as to when the takeover will be completed but this is another sign that things are heading in the right direction.