Middlesbrough defender David Wheater is holding talks with Bolton Wanderers over a move to the Reebok.
The centre-back is out of contract this summer and is desperate to return to the top-flight after Boro hit a poor run of form and currently sit 20th, only one point above relegation.
A number of clubs were reportedly showing an interest, including Wolves, Stoke, Everton and Newcastle, but Trotters boss Owen Coyle showed the most, by coming forward with a bid, believed to be just over £2million.
The 23-year-old has been left out of Tony Mowbray's squad to face Burton Albion in the FA Cup third-round tie to open negotiations and Coyle hopes to have the deal wrapped up in 48 hours to reinforce his defence.