PHIL Parkinson’s summer transfer kitty at Wanderers has been kickstarted by a timely bonus payment on Gary Madine’s January move to Cardiff City.

It is understood a seven-figure fee has now been paid in full by the Bluebirds, taking the total value of the striker’s transfer above the £6million mark.

And that is good news for Parkinson, who after getting the green light to start planning for next season in the Championship from Ken Anderson, is now looking to add quality to his squad before August.

Anderson pledged funds would be made available for new signings regardless of the outcome of his discussions with three potential investors at the Macron Stadium.

And topping Parkinson’s wish-list this summer will be strikers to boost a front line which looked threadbare after top-scorer Madine’s deadline day exit.

“Unfortunately they are the ones who cost the most money,” reasoned the Wanderers boss. “But we know this summer we have to push on in the transfer market. It won’t all happen at once but the club is probably in the best position it has been for a while, and it is important we capitalise and build.”

Reports in the North East earlier this week suggested Parkinson could be on a shortlist of names to fill the vacant managerial slot at Sunderland. But sources close to the Stadium of Light claim the club is now concentrating their efforts on St Mirren’s Jack Ross and former Blackburn Rovers boss Michael Appleton for the time being.

Filipe Morais, who has worked with Parkinson at both Bradford City and Wanderers, believes he is the ideal man to take Bolton to the next level.

“The gaffer builds clubs,” he told The Bolton News. “And he has made a good start. I think when you look at the core of the squad, players like Will Buckley, Craig Noone, Sammy Ameobi, there’s plenty of Championship experience there. Others, like me, have adapted. But I think it’s all ready to step up if we can sign a few quality players in the summer.”