Spearing linked with Trotters

Bolton are leading the race to sign Liverpool midfielder Jay Spearing, though QPR, Aston Villa and Southampton are also reportedly keen

The 23-year-old has fallen down the Anfield pecking order this season following the arrivals of Joe Allen and Nuri Sahin. The Liverpool-born midfielder was not even in the squad for last weekend's clash with Manchester City, sparking rumours a transfer was imminent. Initial reports suggested that Championship side Bolton were in pole position to sign the £3million rated star, either permanently or on-loan with a view to buy. However, it then emerged that the Trotters face competition from Premier League trio QPR, Villa and Southampton, while recently relegated Wolves have also been named as a possible destination. The chance to stay in the top flight would certainly appeal to Spearing, although a move to Bolton would mean he could stay in the north-west. Either way it looks unlikely he will be a Liverpool player by the close of the transfer window on Friday evening.