Exclusive: Don Goodman reacts as Bolton Wanderers push to sign 15-goal striker | OneFootball

As revealed in a FLW exclusive, Sam Dalby is on the Trotters' radar

With his Wrexham contract set to expire at the end of June, Sam Dalby is emerging as one of the more intriguing free agents on the EFL market this summer.

The 25-year-old striker enjoyed a breakthrough season on loan at Dundee United, scoring 15 goals in 35 league appearances, earning the club’s Player of the Season award, and becoming one of only two players outside of Celtic and Rangers named in the PFA Scotland Premiership Team of the Year.

Dalby’s profile has evolved significantly during that loan spell. Standing at 6ft 3in, he offers the kind of physical presence that can trouble defences at League One level and beyond.

Football League World has exclusively revealed that Bolton Wanderers are among several clubs chasing his signature following him turning down a new contract from Wrexham.

Steven Schumacher is in the market for a striker who can lead the line, and Dalby fits that mould.

Don Goodman sees Bolton move as key to unlocking Sam Dalby’s potential

Following rumours of a move to the North West for Dalby, Football League World spoke exclusively with Don Goodman to find out if he’d be a good signing for the Trotters.

Goodman was impressed with the striker’s numbers, and considered Bolton as a good destination for him to kick on with a career that should shortly be reaching its prime.

“I got to be honest - he’s not a player I know too much about, Sam Dalby,” Goodman told FLW.

“But when you’re analysing him, 15 goals is a great return in a very successful season with Dundee United.”

“Obviously not wanted by Wrexham - allowed to go on loan. Big, tall striker, scored a few headers looking at the numbers.

“So, yeah I think that loan period will be the thing that gives him the confidence to take his career onwards.

“He’s 25 years old, he should be looking to play week in week out and yeah, I’m not surprised looking at the numbers that Bolton are linked with him.”

15-goal Sam Dalby linked with Bolton Wanderers move after standout SPL spell

While Bolton face stiff competition from clubs like Wigan Athletic, Blackpool, and even Dundee United themselves, they arguably offer the most compelling platform for Dalby to step up.

With Steven Schumacher seeking a forward to anchor his Trotters attack, Dalby fits the profile: tall, proven in a physical league, and hungry to make the most of his prime years.

What’s more, the move would address a tactical gap in the squad - a focal point in attack capable of holding up play and contributing goals.

If Bolton can secure his signature, Dalby could prove a smart addition: not just a stopgap, but a striker with the potential to grow into a key figure in a promotion-challenging side.