Bolton Wanderers eyeing a move for Brazilian former Arsenal striker Julio Baptista this summer window
Newly-promoted Championship side in talks with ex-Real Madrid attacker who starred for his country in the Star Sixes
BRAZILIAN forward Julio Baptista could make sensational return to English football with Bolton Wanderers.
The newly-promoted Championship side are in talks with the former Arsenal and Real Madrid attacker who starred for his country in the Star Sixes tournament in London this month.
The Trotters are looking to bolster their squad to establish themselves back in England's second tier after a season in League One - and are keen to add Baptista's experience on a short-term deal.
The 35-year-old is a free agent after his release from MLS outfit Orlando City last November and has revealed he is desperate to keep playing.
He revealed to Sky Sports at Star Sixes: "I'm not done yet, my agent is looking for a team so I can keep playing a little longer.
"Maybe it will be in Spain, or China, we will have to wait and see."
Baptista, known as "The Beast" was a prime target for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger while the attacker was at Seville in 2005.
But he opted to join Real Madrid, but then ended up at the Emirates a year later in a swap deal with Jose Antonio Reyes.
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Baptista struggled in the Premier League scoring just three goals in 24 appearances.
But Gunners will remember him most for his four goals against Liverpool at Anfield in a stunning 6-3 League Cup quarter-final win.
Lee Anderson, son of Bolton owner Kenny, has been working tirelessly to strengthen boss Phil Parkinson squad in time for the opening game of the season at home to Leeds United next Sunday.
The Lancashire side are trying to sign Osmanlispor forward Cheick Diabate who was on loan at Metz last season.
The Mali international scored eight goals in 14 appearances in Ligue 1 and is keen a switch to England.
Bolton are also in talks to sign Zach Hadji - son of former Moroccan international Mustapha who has been on trial at the Macron stadium and featuring in pre-season friendlies.