Okacha move doubtful
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce looks set to pull out of the race to sign Nigerian World Cup midfielder Jay-Jay Okocha due to the Paris St Germain player’s pay demands.
‘‘We talked briefly to Okocha’s agent about the size of salary he wants, but at this moment in time it’s far too great, in the terms that unfortunately people from Europe continue to talk about net rather than gross salaries,’’ Allardyce said on Sky Sports News.
Allardyce may be able to tie up a permanent deal for on-loan German international Fredi Bobic however, with the player reportedly happy to stay at the Reebok Stadium.
Bobic scored four crucial goals in Wanderers’ successful Premiership survival bid while on-loan from Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund, including a hat-trick in the 4-1 win over Ipswich.
Allardyce has admitted a fee was already agreed between the two clubs while the original loan deal was thrashed out, and it is understood Wanderers need to agree personal terms with the player himself.
Bernhard Schmittenbecher, Bobic’s representative, said on the club’s official website, bwfc.co.uk: ‘‘No decision has been made at the moment as Fredi is away on holiday. But Fredi would be happy to stay at Bolton.
‘‘It was a great time for him and he would like to go back. The decision is now down to Bolton and Borussia Dortmund and Fredi is just waiting for a call from Sam Allardyce.’’
