Wanderers have pulled off a sensational transfer coup to sign Scotland Under-21 international Gregg Wylde on a free transfer.

The Bolton News can reveal that Owen Coyle has pipped the likes of Aston Villa, Everton, Wigan Athletic, West Ham and Charlton to tie up the 20-year-old winger, whose contract at cash-strapped Glasgow Rangers was terminated by mutual consent earlier this month.

Although FIFA still need to ratify the move, and be satisfied that his spell at Ibrox ended solely because of the SPL side’s perilous financial position, it is hoped Wylde, pictured, could be registered early next week with the Premier League after signing a three-year deal.

Coyle is keen to hurry the move through in order for the midfielder to play a part in the Whites’ relegation fight, and speaking yesterday, he hinted that a deal was on the cards.

“He is a very talented young player,” the manager said. “He has played an awful lot of games at a young age for Rangers. Without going overboard, he is one we would like at this football club. There is no doubt about that.”

Coyle tried to sign Wylde last summer for £400,000, but the youngster chose to stay in Glasgow to sign a new five-year deal. When Rangers went into administration at the start of the month, Wylde agreed to tear up his contract in an effort to avert job losses at the club.

It was reported that Celtic were the first club to make a move, quickly rejected by the player himself, but in the 10 days since he left Ibrox, it is understood that 17 different teams have registered an interest.

Reports surfaced yesterday that League One pacesetters Charlton had won the race for the pacy midfielder, but it is understood that Wanderers’ offer is now nearly over the line.

Given the right permission from the sport’s governing body, and pending fitness, Wylde could be ready to face Wolves in a fortnight’s time.