A NEW left wing-back could be the next target Wanderers pursue in the transfer market.

Ian Evatt has already voiced his intention to find competition for summer signing Liam Gordon – but has passed on an opportunity to give a contract to Joe Bunney.

The out-of-contract 26-year-old did not accompany the squad to their training camp in Loughborough last week and is now on the lookout for a new club.

Bunney played just twice for Wanderers in League One last season after being involved in a serious road traffic collision just days after signing for the club, which left him with a broken collarbone and ribs.

The former Rochdale and Northampton Town man did enough to earn a trial with Evatt for the first few weeks of the summer – but the Whites head coach has now decided to look at other options.

Bolton have been linked in the Bulgarian press with ex-Plymouth Argyle man Graham Carey, a Republic of Ireland international who has been playing for CSKA Sofia since June 2019.

Carey, who started his career at Celtic, still has 12 months remaining on his contract and has also been linked with Championship new boys Coventry City.

He does fit the bill – and can play anywhere down the left flank – and also played alongside Antoni Sarcevic at Plymouth a couple of seasons ago.

Another Home Park old boy who could suit Wanderers is ex-Bury defender Callum McFadzean, who has been looking to return north with his family.

Able to play in central defence as well as operate down the left, the 26-year-old has also been linked with Tranmere Rovers in the last couple of weeks.

Wanderers have space for a few more signings but having done the majority of their summer’s work, find themselves in a good position to cherry pick the best options which fall within their budget in the weeks to come.

The knee injury sustained by Dennis Politic last week – which will side-line the youngster for a number of months – may also force Evatt to change his plans slightly in order to find a replacement.

Meanwhile, the draw for the first round of the Carabao Cup will be made on Sky Sports News at 10am this morning.

Wanderers are in the northern half of the draw and will be represented by ball number six.

The EFL Trophy groups will also be decided today, with Wanderers already knowing that they will face League One sides Crewe Alexandra and Shrewsbury Town.

Today’s draw will be held at 1.30pm on Talksport 2, where the Under-21 team of Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, Leeds United, Newcastle United, Leicester City, Wolves or Aston Villa will be added to the group.