Bolton Wanderers are finally out of the relegation zone after their abysmal start to the season but the January transfer window could be key to ensuring they aren’t back in it come May.

The Trotters endured a torrid beginning to life back in the Championship but have picked up a lot in recent months, with Sammy Ameobi and Josh Vela returning from injury to make a big difference.

However, another key factor in the fantastic turnaround from Phil Parkinson’s men was the free transfer signing of Karl Henry. The experienced midfielder has added a lot to the Bolton team and they have been very competitive in most games since his arrival.

It demonstrates how important new signings can be and Parkinson will hope any new additions in January can have a similar impact.

Of course, the financial situation at Wanderers means the manager must be on the lookout for bargain deals and loan signings.

With that in mind, we look at five players he should consider bringing to the Macron Stadium next month…

Zach Clough

The former Bolton favourite has had a tough time of it with Nottingham Forest lately and is surely desperate to get out and play first-team football.

The 22-year old is exactly what Bolton need as he would bring a real creativity and cutting edge to the team that is sometimes lacking.

As well as that, pulling on the white shirt would mean a lot to him and he could play a big part in a survival bid.

Scott McTominay

Bolton are one of several club’s that have been linked with the Manchester United man on loan and it would be a great deal if the Trotters could finalise it.

The youngster is strong, powerful and would surely excel in the Championship. He would certainly play every week under Phil Parkinson and that may appeal to United when they consider sending him out.

McTominay would flourish playing regularly and Bolton would seriously benefit themselves if he ended up at the club.

Anthony Pilkington

Even though he has suffered with injuries, Pilkington just isn’t going to get a chance under Neil Warnock at Cardiff City.

However, he would with Bolton. The Irishman is still only 29-years-old and has a lot to offer at this level.

Capable of playing out wide or up front, he would fit in effortlessly to Bolton’s style and could bring much-needed quality to the final third.

Ikechi Anya

The versatile Scotland international is completely out of favour with Derby and is another who would surely want to play.

Anya is strong on either flank and would bring pace and drive to the Bolton team. Plus, if Parkinson wanted to play with wing-backs, the 29-year old is ideally suited to that.

Yohan Benalouane

The Leicester man hasn’t had a look in for the East Midlands club this year and he will surely be allowed to leave in January.

At 30, surely the powerful defender wants to play football and whilst he might think he can do better than Bolton, a strong few months playing regularly and helping the Championship side could see him earn a better move in the summer.

Plus, Bolton would benefit as he will bring another solid option to the defence.

Thoughts, Bolton fans? Let us know in the comments below.