By Mark Heys
June 29 2007

Sheffield United chairman Terry Robinson has confirmed that Bolton are one of three Premiership clubs hoping to land the versatile Phil Jagielka.

Jagielka is hoping to stay in the Premiership following the Blades relegation at the end of last season and the Wanderers, Wigan Athletic and Everton are all beleived to be ready to trigger a £4 million release clause in the 25-year old's contract.

Robinson stated that all three clubs had shown an interest in the Manchester-born star who can play at centre back, right back, central midfield and even emergency goalkeeper.

Everton appear to be the preferred choice of Jagielka according to Robinson but the Daily Mirror today claims that Bolton are ready to speed up the deal by launching a £5 million bid.

Sheffield could yet remain in the Premiership providing that an arbitration appeal works in their favour and ultimately this will mean that England B international Jagielka will remain at Bramall Lane.

However, if the ruling works against the Blades then Jagielka will trigger off the release clause.

"We're waiting to see the outcome of the arbitration, If Sheffield United are reinstated, it's highly unlikely that Phil will leave." said former Bury supremo Robinson 

"If we're not reinstated, then he'll invoke the clause in his contract. If we're reinstated we wouldn't even be having this discussion. He does want to play Premiership football.

"Phil has a high regard for Sheffield United as we all know, but sometimes it's your own career advancement that comes before other things. I spoke to Phil's agent this morning and we're all singing from the same hymn sheet.

"Everton are the favourites - it is Phil's preferred choice. Wigan and Bolton have shown some interest in him, as have Everton."

If Jagielka does move to Bolton for the £5 million fee quoted then he will become the club's second most expensive signing behind Nicolas Anelka who was purchased for £8 million nearly a year ago.