Bolton Wanderers remain in the hunt to sign Bradford City striker Charlie Wyke, according to The Bolton News. This is despite the fact the player has quite a high price tag placed upon him by the Sky Bet League One club.
The Bantams are unlikely to let their top forward leave without a fight, or at least making the buyer pay a handsome some. Sunderland are very much in the chase for the player too, and recently saw an offer worth £600,000 rejected. Wyke has spent the past 18 months at Valley Parade after joining from Carlisle United. Earlier this summer, Bolton were told he would cost them £1million.
Bolton manager Phil Parkinson is still seeking a replacement for Gary Madine, who departed for Cardiff City, who won promotion, in the previous transfer window. A big number nine is very much his priority this summer, and believes Wyke is that man. The 25-year-old netted 16 times last season as Bradford ended the campaign in mid-table.
An interesting development in this plot was that Wyke was forced off early on Tuesday night as Bradford faced Sheffield United in a pre-season friendly. He lasted only eight minutes before exiting the pitch. This led to some supporters wondering if he is ‘saving himself’ and prevent himself picking up an injury before a likely move. His manager, Michael Collins, told the Telegraph & Argus that this was not the case,
“I know Charlie and he’s not the sort of person to do that. I know his character and what he’s about.
“If he comes off a football pitch, then there’s a genuine issue. I’ve got absolutely no problem with him coming off, all I’m bothered about is his well-being.”
It is believed to be a ‘knee issue’ that meant Wyke left the field.
