Wanderers have confirmed the loan signing of Everton defender, Callum Connolly. He becomes the club’s first and only successful foray into the January transfer market.
The defender was on loan at Wigan in the first half of this season. However, Everton cut short his stay at the DW in order for Connolly to join Bolton.
The move will see Connolly link up with fellow Everton loanee, Joe Williams at the University of Bolton Stadium.
The signing of another defender seems to contravene the needs of the club, who have been desperate to land themselves a striker this transfer window.
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However, Connolly – who is primarily a right-back – can also play at centre-half and midfield if required.
The ability to play in several positions is likely the reason Parkinson targeted the 21-year-old. Having a multi-faceted player like Connolly could prove useful if injuries start to mount up in defence and midfield.
As well as playing for several Championship clubs, Connolly also has a number of appearances in England’s youth teams. He was even a member of the U20 World Cup winning squad in 2017.
While he may not be the striker many fans, and I’m sure the manager, were hoping for, Connolly should hopefully provide another, more youthful option in defence.
Will the addition of Connolly help to keep Bolton in the Championship, however? That remains to be seen.
Connolly is Bolton’s only successful January signing as a proposed loan deal for Sheffield United striker Ched Evans fell through late on.
