Bolton Wanderers have been hit with a major blow in their attempts to sign Mark Milligan, according to a reliable journalist.

Alan Nixon is reporting that the deal has come to a standstill due to work permit issues.

Mark Milligan cannot wait to see if he will be granted a work permit to play in England, even though Bolton Wanderers would consider reviewing this matter again at a later date.

For now, the Australian international is expected to re-sign for Melbourne Victory.

This would be his third spell with the A-League outfit, having played there on loan in 2012 and then permanently between 2012 and 2015.

Milligan was most recently in the Middle East, representing Baniyas and was reportedly keen on a move to Bolton Wanderers.

During his career, Mark Milligan has also played for Northern Spirit, Blacktown City, Sydney FC, Newcastle Jets, Shanghai Shenhua and JEF United Chiba.

Able to play as a right-back, centre-back or centre-midfielder, the 31-year-old would have brought experience and versatility to the Trotters' ranks as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming Championship campaign.

The Socceroos skipper would also bring invaluable leadership to the Bolton Wanderers squad, having captained his country on a number of occasions.

Bolton Wanderers will now have to look at alternative options in central midfield as a move for West Ham's Josh Cullen also continues to stall.

Bolton fans - is the Mark Milligan news a shame? Who can you get instead? Let us know below...