SCOTT Green is heading for Tranmere in a £300,000 transfer after rejecting a record-breaking bid from Wigan Athletic.
The long-serving Wanderers utility player looked set for a move to Springfield Park after Second Division Wigan matched the asking price - double their previous record.
But Rovers, who had a £250,000 bid rejected in March just before the transfer deadline, stepped in and the prospect of First Division football tipped the balance for the 27-year-old.
"Wigan are a very ambitious club but I want to play in the highest division possible and Tranmere are a team that has always knocked on the door of the Premiership," Green explained.
"I've had seven good years at Bolton and I would have liked to have gone into the Premiership with them again. I'll be very disappointed to leave but in this game you have to know when it's time to move on."
Walsall-born Green was signed by Phil Neal from Derby for what turned out to be a bargain £50,000 in March 1990. He made more than 200 league appearances under successive managers including 31 Premiership games in 95-96 and shared in three promotion successes.
Though converted into a right back by Bruce Rioch, Green's versatility continued to make him a valued member of the Bolton squad although his appearances last season were restricted by a groin injury.
Wanderers boss Colin Todd praised Green's service to the club. "He has served this club well for many years and he goes with our best wishes."
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