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Coyle braced for star's departure
Bolton Wanderers, 12:46, September 8, 2010 , | No Comments
Bolton boss Owen Coyle admits Gary Cahill could be allowed to move on, amid reported interest from Inter Milan and Arsenal.
The defender joined the Wanderers in January 2008 in a £5million deal but has since seen his value skyrocket after impressing in the heart of the Bolton defence.
Coyle has now admitted he would not stand in Cahill's way if a bigger club meets Bolton's valuation, but the Wanderers boss is hopeful he can hold onto the England international until at least the end of the current campaign.
"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," Coyle told the Bolton News.
"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."
Cahill made his England debut in the 4-0 victory over Bulgaria, impressing after coming on as a second half substitute for Michael Dawson, and as such a £17.5million release clause has been activated in his contract.
Arsenal were linked with a swoop for Cahill throughout the summer but a deal failed to materialise, while reports in Italy have linked Inter Milan boss Rafael Benitez with a January swoop for the 24-year-old.
Manchester United and Tottenham have been credited with an interest in the past and Coyle may have to begin his search for a replacement if it becomes clear the battle for Cahill will gather pace in January.
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