WANDERERS defender Matt Mills could be edging a step nearer a summer exit to Leeds United.

Reports suggest the Elland Road outfit are preparing a £1million bid following links with the centre-back earlier this month.

But The Bolton News understands no formal offer has yet been received by Wanderers.

Speculation resurfaced in the national press yesterday that a bid was in the offing with Leeds boss Brian McDermott keen on being reacquainted with the centre-back he worked with at Reading before he joined Leicester in 2011.

With Mills also believed to be open to a move across the Pennines after a stop-start campaign at the Reebok following his £2m move from Leicester 12 months ago, it all points towards a summer switch.

He has made just 18 appearances and had just a few minutes game-time since injuring a hamstring in early December – off the bench late on against Huddersfield at the start of last month.

But nothing is close just yet with the two clubs understood to be a little bit apart in their valuations of the 6ft 3ins former Manchester City man at present and his wage demands could also be an obstacle.

Although no agreement looks imminent, it is a move that could benefit all parties with Leeds looking to strengthen their back line, Mills is seeking more regular action and Whites boss Dougie Freedman looking to bring his own men in and seeking to finance that.

And with David Wheater back fit after almost a season on the sidelines and new defensive additions in the shape of Marc Tierney and Alex Baptiste, he has already added to his defensive ranks.