Jussi rejects Bolton deal
14 Jun 2007 - 13:17:20
Goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen's future at Bolton Wanderers is in doubt after he rejected a new contract offer to remain at the Reebok Stadium.
The Finland international still has 12 months left to run on his existing deal but has rejected terms on a new long-term contract offered by manager Sammy Lee.
Bolton may now be tempted to cash in on the 32-year-old keeper, who could sign a pre-contract agreement with another club in January and leave on a free transfer next summer.
Jaaskelainen, who has been at Bolton for ten years, has previously been linked with Manchester United, Arsenal and Premier League new boys Sunderland.
"Jussi has turned down his contract with Bolton," agent Peter Harrison told the Manchester Evening News.
"He is happy to see out the last year of his current contract at the Reebok. But at the moment that's as far as it goes.
"He has given ten years' great service to Bolton and he is recognised as one of the top three keepers in the Premiership - if not the best."
However, Harrison has hinted that the former VPS Vaasa keeper could be tempted to change his mind should Bolton offer improved terms.
He added: "The goalkeeping position is a difficult one to fill. You only have to look at other clubs who have spent fortunes on overseas keepers and they haven't worked out.
"Jussi has never given Bolton any problems because he is solid and reliable. He just wants what he feels he is worth."
