Trotters step up Veloso hunt

13 June 2009 16:24
Bolton are set to lodge a formal approach for Sporting Lisbon starlet Miguel Veloso, according to reports in Portugal. The Trotters have been tracking the midfielder for some time and are said to be preparing a 12million euros (£10.2m) bid. Sporting have previously been unwilling to discuss the sale of Veloso, with a host of admirers turned away down the years. However, the recent turmoil surrounding changes to their directors and the uncertain financial stability which continues to hang over the club has forced them to listen to offers. Initially it was believed that the Lisbon outfit were demanding 15million euros (£12.8m) for the Portugal international, but they have since lowered their stance. The club's new president, Jose Eduardo Bettencourt, is all too aware of the need to raise money as quickly as possible, and he sees the sale of Veloso as an ideal opportunity to generate funds. Veloso has spent his entire career to date in the Portuguese capital, but has admitted he would be willing to discuss a switch elsewhere. He has also revealed that a move to England would appeal, seemingly opening the door to Bolton. "An important offer from a Premier League club would be tremendously attractive," the 23-year-old has been quoted as saying.

Source: SKY_Sports