Evatt seeks value for money amid reports of rejected offer for Posh star

IAN Evatt will be backed by cash in the transfer market this summer – but the Bolton boss insists value for money remains his top priority.

Three players have already been signed and the Wanderers are being heavily linked with a fourth player: Peterborough United attacking midfielder Joel Randall.

A six-figure offer was reportedly rejected for the 24-year-old, who made 56 appearances for Posh last season, scoring 12 goals and providing 11 assists.

Randall joined Peterborough from Exeter City in 2021 for a transfer fee of over £1 million and is believed to have 12 months left on his contract at London Road.

Evatt has told fans they can expect a “busy summer” in terms of player recruitment. With Klaidi Lolos, Luke Southwood and Chris Forino already signed, signing Randall would be a strong statement if it works out.

But in a speech last week, the Bolton boss warned that increased support from the board this summer would not mean the club would be among the biggest spenders in League One.

“The board has been incredible and we all agree that we need to improve. And I’m going to get the tools I need behind the scenes to do that,” he said.

“There are a lot of discussions, a lot is happening, but unlike in previous years, the squad is not yet in its current final state. We are working on it and making progress throughout the preseason.

“I have never asked for anything here and I am not putting any pressure on the board when it comes to spending. They came to me and said: ‘We want to give you everything you need to achieve your goals’ and we will work very hard to get the right players.”

“Are we going to be the ones who spend the most money? No. Are we going to be the ones who spend the least money? Absolutely not.”

“It’s going to be a real competition and the board have done a great job not only in recruiting but also in working at Lostock. That’s really important for the direction this club is going in. We’re ready to go and have a clear plan of what we need to do.”