Transfer Gossip: Bolton Wanderers face battle for Walsall midfielder

According to HITC Sport, Bolton Wanderers are eyeing a move for Walsall midfielder Erhun Oztumer.

The article states:

"Nottingham Forest, Bristol City, Sheffield United and Bolton Wanderers are all tracking Walsall midfielder Erhun Oztumer, HITC Sport understands from sources close to the club.

Oztumer enjoyed a fantastic season for Walsall and has been one of the stars of League One this term with 15 goals and seven assists in 45 appearances for the Saddlers.

The diminutive play-maker has shown he has an eye for the spectacular with several of his goals being stunning long-range efforts.

Oztumer's form has not gone unnoticed by clubs higher up the football pyramid, with the player dubbed the 'Turkish Messi' set to be the subject of interest from several clubs this summer.

Nottingham Forest and Bristol City are both looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of next season after battling against relegation this season and they see Oztumer as someone who can add goals and guile to their sides.

Newly-promoted Sheffield United and Bolton are both planning to bolster their squads as they prepare for life back in the Championship next season and they are well aware of Oztumer's talents after he scored against both clubs this season.

Oztumer has one-year to run on his current deal at Walsall after signing a two-year deal at the Banks' Stadium upon his arrival from Peterborough last summer and Walsall are bracing themselves for bids for the play-maker this summer."

Born in England, Erhun Oztumer spent nine years in the Charlton Athletic youth team, before moving to Turkey in 2008. In 2012, Oztumer moved back to England to sign for non-league side Dulwich Hamlet. After scoring 49 league goals in 78 games (not bad for a centre mid), Oztumer moved to Peterborough in 2014 and then Walsall in 2016.

You'll remember Oztumer for his stunning goal against Wanderers at The Macron back in February.

Obviously, any move would depend on the embargo being lifted.

Do you think Oztumer would be a good signing? Let us know in the comments box below.