Premiership newcomers Bolton have emerged as contenders for Boro wing-back Dean Gordon.

The players agent, Phillip Graham admitted that Trotters boss Sam Allardyce had inquired about the 28-year-old's availability and with new boss Steve McClaren reportedly ready to up his bid for Everton full-back Michael Ball, Gordon's future on Teesside is looking decidedly uncertain.

Graham confirmed: "There is an interest from Bolton.

"They may decide to pursue that interest in the near future."

Despite returning to full fitness last season, Gordon has failed to recapture the form which almost earned him an England call-up three years ago when a serious knee injury ended any hopes he had of a place in the national side.

McClaren is keen to make Ball his second major signing of the season, having already captured England defender Gareth Southgate earlier this month.

Despite pledging to give every player their chance to impress, McClaren is ready to offload a number of first-team members with Steve Vickers, Andy Campbell, Phil Stamp, Brian Deane and Hamilton Ricard all being linked with moves away from the club in recent weeks.

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