WANDERERS skipper Kevin Davies could make a shock Reebok exit ahead of Thursday’s loan deadline with Sheffield Wednesday keen on taking the Whites stalwart back to his home town.

As revealed by The Bolton News online yesterday, the 35-year-old frontman is understood to be firmly on the radar of the Owls whose manager, Dave Jones, knows Davies well from their time together at Southampton.

Neither Wednesday nor Wanderers have confirmed any contact but it is believed an enquiry has been made and the Owls remain hopeful of landing their man.

It is also understood the long-standing Whites captain could be open to a move with his contract at the Reebok up this summer and no talks over a new deal as yet forthcoming.

The draw of a return to his home town in the twilight of his career could also be tempting for Davies who grew up a Sheffield United fan.

Wanderers manager Dougie Freedman has previously stated no contractual discussions would happen before the end of the campaign.

But The Bolton News understands the Scot has told Davies he wants him to stay to aid the late play-off bid.

He has not been a regular starter in recent weeks, however, and there are other second-tier clubs, like Barnsley, believed to be monitoring the situation.

With his future unclear and eight games remaining, Davies may choose to make his exit early if there is a loan with a view to a permanent deal in the offing.

However, it would still be a huge surprise given his affinity for the club and the strength of feeling of the fans towards him.

In his first Championship season with the Whites, Davies has scored six goals in 28 starts. But with Craig Davies, David Ngog and Marvin Sordell – linked with a loan move to Charlton recently – in the ranks, his opportunities could diminish further.

This summer marks 10 years since the front man joined Wanderers following his release from Southampton and he passed the 400-appearance mark in February. But he could miss out on a testimonial if he does not get a new contract to extend his stay into an 11th campaign.

With the forward believed to be weighing up his options, an early severing of ties at the Reebok cannot be ruled out.