Former Arsenal forward Julio Baptista in talks with Bolton over move to struggling Championship club

  • Julio Baptista has been training with Bolton Wanderers ahead of proposed move 
  • Manager Phil Parkinson has been impressed by Baptista's qualities in training 
  • Wanderers have operated under transfer embargo but could get nod over move

Julio Baptista is discussing a possible move to Bolton Wanderers. 

The 35-year-old Brazilian, who had a spell on loan at Arsenal from Real Madrid in 2006-07, arrived at Bolton's Whites Hotel on Monday and has been training with the club's Under 23s.

Baptista has not played competitively since leaving Orlando City in November last year and the Championship club are taking a closer look at him in training ahead of exploring if a deal is feasible.

Former Arsenal attacking midfielder Julio Baptista is set to join Bolton Wanderers on a free

Former Arsenal attacking midfielder Julio Baptista is set to join Bolton Wanderers on a free

The Trotters have made a poor start to the Championship campaign and currently prop up the table after recording just two points in their opening five games.


Baptista was last seen playing in the Star Sixes tournament at the O2 Arena this summer for his country's team.

The former Sevilla forward is a free agent and told Sky Sports, 'I'm not finished yet' during the televised event.

Phil Parkinson's winless strugglers have been operating under a transfer embargo but hope to receive approval from the Football League to use Baptista. 

Baptista (left) had a relatively unsuccessful spell with Arsenal as well as a loan at Real Madrid

Baptista (left) had a relatively unsuccessful spell with Arsenal as well as a loan at Real Madrid