INTEREST in Rob Holding is building fast - with another un-named Premier League club now submitting an offer for the young defender.
The England Under-21 international had been heavily tipped to sign for Arsenal this summer but the club has now confirmed that a second offer has been received.
The Bolton News understands that Bournemouth, Newcastle United and Sunderland have all enquired about Holding in the past few weeks. But Wanderers say another club has now made an official offer, which has now been rejected.
It is believed the fee being put down up front is closer to the Whites’ valuation than the Gunners’ bid of £1.2million, which was rejected in May.
Since then, Arsene Wenger’s side have made no official improved offer but bonuses included in the initial deal bumped the fee up to £1.5m, which kicked in when he represented England at the Toulon Tournament.
Wanderers have always maintained Holding would only leave on their terms and have insisted on significant clauses which could benefit the club at a later date. They have also asked about a loan-back agreement, which could see the academy graduate play another season at the Macron Stadium to gain more experience.
Holding is still only 20, and still had not played a game for the club 12 months ago.
He made 30 appearances in all last season, prompting the club to exercise a 12-month option on his contract this summer to give themselves a little security as clubs continued to watch his progress.
Should Holding stay with Wanderers this season and fail to agree a new deal, the club would still be guaranteed a fee via tribunal next summer. That scenario looks unlikely, however, as Phil Parkinson could need funds to divert towards rebuilding the first team squad.
The Whites boss has said neither Holding nor his long-time academy team-mate Zach Clough would be sold on unless a “life-changing” Premier League offer came in.
“If something happens where we feel we can utilise the money to strengthen the squad and that it benefits both parties, then we would consider it.”
Meanwhile, Wanderers have confirmed their annual family fun day will be held on Saturday, July 30, before their home friendly against Preston North End.
The event kicks-off at 10am with a special autograph signing session from the first team.
Plenty of entertainment for young and old will be available outside Bolton Central and in the Premier Suite, including a funfair.
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