Larne striker Lee Bonis has put an end to his transfer speculation after signing a new deal with the Northern Irish champions until the summer of 2026.
Bolton Wanderers were said to have held an interest in the 23-year-old who was valued at around £300,000 alongside Wigan Athletic, Derby County, Portsmouth, Birmingham City, Blackpool and Dundee United.
Bonis scored 15 league goals for Larne last season, helping them secure a first Northern Ireland Premiership title in their 134-year history.
It appeared increasingly likely that the striker was set to depart for pastures new this summer, but the Harbour Rats have managed to tie their star man down to a new contract, either securing his services or protecting his value; possibly both.
Last month saw Bonis earn his first call-up to the Northern Ireland senior squad with manager Michael O’Neill rewarding the forward for his performances last season.
There is not too much to worry about for Bolton, however, as they are certainly not short of depth up top heading into the 2023/24 campaign.
Currently on the Wanderers’ books are Dion Charles, Victor Adeboyejo, Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, Cameron Jerome, and new signing Dan Nlundulu.
Have Bolton missed out on Bonis?
The more senior strikers in Bodvarsson and Jerome are under contract until the end of the season, whilst Charles’ deal runs out in 2025, and the remaining pair Adeboyejo and Nlundulu are tied down until 2026.
Talisman Charles hit 21 goals last season, an impressive return following his eight goals in the prior campaign after signing from Accrington Stanley in the January transfer window.
Bodvarsson managed eight goals in almost half the amount of Charles’ appearances as he showcased his abilities, whereas the other forwards’ returns were not quite as flashy.
It is, of course, an area that could be improved, but it is certainly not the most crucial area in need of strengthening ahead of next season following the likely departure of utility man MJ Williams.