Wanderers have made Scott Arfield their fourth signing of the summer on an initial one-year deal.
The 35-year-old former Rangers and Burnley man leaves MLS outfit Charlotte to return to the UK.
Canada international Arfield is well-known to Wanderers’ recruitment chief Chris Markham, who worked with him at Huddersfield Town.
Ian Evatt released his two most experienced players, Cameron Jerome and Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, at the end of last season after failing to get promotion to the Championship.
He has also hinted at a more flexible tactical approach this season, which could lend weight to the addition of a player like Arfield, who can play on either wing as well as through the middle of the park.
The Bolton boss said: “Losing Cameron and Jon - two of our most experienced players in the summer - we feel that's a role we need to fill.
“Scotty has obviously had a very good career and was playing in a Europa League final not so long ago.
"He's been playing regularly in the MLS and is still able to do the job. He wants to help us on the pitch but also off it. That experienced voice away from the staff is really going to help us.
“He will give us flexibility in the middle of the pitch when we want to change systems and will give us that opportunity.
"If you discuss the experience and mental role with Scotty he understands that, but first and foremost he’s coming here to make a difference to the team. That's important to say and I'm excited to work with him."
The veteran has amassed more than 700 appearances across his whole career, 86 of which were in the English Premier League, and has scored 93 times.
Evatt continued: “One thing we always have at this club is a pressure to win. In his whole career he's had that pressure - especially with Glasgow Rangers and Burnley.
"That's what he's going to bring to the table - a calm, cool, experienced head and someone who's going to be able to help us on the pitch.”
The Whites have also brought in Chris Forino, Luke Southwood and Klaidi Lolos ahead of the upcoming League One campaign.
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