Bolton manager Owen Coyle admits England newcomer Gary Cahill could soon leave the club.
Cahill has established himself as one of the finest young defenders in the Premier League since his £5m move from Aston Villa almost three years ago, and is being chased by a number of big clubs.
Having seen Cahill earn his first cap for England in last Friday’s win over Bulgaria, Wanderers boss Coyle has now conceded the time will come when the 24-year-old will “outgrow” the club.
The Scot told the Bolton News: “There will come a day, and I hope it doesn’t come in January, that Gary Cahill will probably outgrow the football club, given the finance involved in it.
“I firmly believe that he could play for any of the top four clubs. And if that day comes, then Gary would go with our blessing because he’s been a terrific servant for the football club.
“The reason those clubs are in for him is because he’s been playing consistently well for me as a manager.
“I have always said I have no qualms with anyone, as long as they pour their heart and soul into their job. And if that’s the case then he would go with my blessing.
“He’s different class when he does the simple things well and I think he’ll go on to have a fantastic international career.”
However, potential suitors, with Inter Milan reportedly leading the race, may have to stump up £17.5m to land Cahill.