Bolton complete Wheater deal

Jan 20, 2011, 11:17 GMT

London - Bolton Wanderers completed the signing of Middlesbrough defender David Wheater for an undisclosed fee on Thursday.

The 23-year-old has agreed a three-and-half-year deal at the Reebok Stadium and could make his debut against Chelsea on Monday.

'First and foremost we are absolutely delighted to get a player of David's quality into Bolton,' said Bolton manager Owen Coyle.

'The hunger that he has shown in wanting to come to the football club has been first class.

'There has been a lot of competition for his signature and again this shows a willingness on our behalf to invest in young players.

'The club have parted with good money to secure the services of a very talented player who has been involved with England squads before.

'We want him to be involved at that level again and to do that he will have to play well for Bolton Wanderers, however he has arrived here with a real desire to achieve that.

'He has a great character as well. He will integrate into the group straight away and it all adds to the fantastic spirit that we have within the squad.'

Although Coyle insisted Wheater's arrival was prompted by the need to cover for Andy O'Brien, who has been sold to Leeds, the news is sure to heighten speculation that Gary Cahill is leaving the club.

The centre-back has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Chelsea.

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