Bolton close in on Tim Ream

Bolton Wanderers are nearing a deal to bring Tim Ream to the club after the American defender was granted a work permit, according to BBC Sport.

The New York Red Bulls centre half was in the crowd on Saturday evening as the Trotters beat Liverpool 3-1 at the Reebok Stadium.

Wanderers boss Owen Coyle has targeted Ream, who will cost Bolton around £2.5m, as a replacement for Gary Cahill after the England defender joined Chelsea earlier this month.

Ream has trained with Bolton, as well as West Bromwich Albion, since the end of the MLS season.