Arsenal have failed with a first bid of just ?6m for Bolton Wanderers' highly-rated England international Gary Cahill. The Trotters are thought to want more than double that to even contemplate selling the centre-back - who has became a mainstay of their team since joining from Aston Villa three years ago for a million less than the Gunners offered.
Wanderers boss Owen Coyle is desperate to keep hold of the defender, who he still believes can get even better, but an improved bid from Arsenal could force his hand as Cahill is currently in the final year of his contract at the Reebok Stadium.
Privately Bolton officials have given up hope of getting anywhere near the full asking price for him, but a figure of at least ?10m would have to be tabled for them to even consider taking the offer seriously, with Manchester City and Liverpool also reportedly interested in the player.
Coyle would love to keep hold of Cahill and to open talks with him over a new deal, and he knows only too well the events of the next few days could have a huge significance.
He told the Mirror: "We will need to wait and see what the next few weeks holds before the transfer window closes. It would not be ideal for me to lose Gary, but I have always said, I need to be fair to Gary,"Any player wants to play at the highest level, to play the best teams, and there is nothing wrong with that.
"I am loathed to say this because he is my player, but if I was at one of those elite clubs, then Gary Cahill would be the first name on my shopping list."
Source: DSG
Source: DSG