Bolton Wanderers fans are torn on new signing from Wrexham, it could be a ‘statement’ or a big mistake

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As Bolton Wanderers look to mount a promotion push for 2025/26, the Trotters have just bagged a deadly striker in Sam Dalby, but fans have some doubts.

Bolton were tipped for success in 2024/25, but ended up finishing eighth in the League One table, ten points behind Leyton Orient in the top six.

The Trotters ditched Ian Evatt partway through the season, too, replacing him with Steven Schumacher, and there are now hopes they can improve next season.

As the first part of the summer transfer window closes, Bolton can celebrate the fact they have a new face through the door. But, is it a good move?

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What Bolton fans are saying about Sam Dalby

On Monday, Bolton announced the signing of Sam Dalby, who arrives on a free transfer from Wrexham.

The striker just came off the back of a brilliant loan spell up in Scotland with Dundee United, where he bagged 15 goals and was crowned their player of the season.

Reacting to the news of the signing, there was plenty of positivity among the Bolton fans. One said, “Delighted to have you, Sam! Let’s make it a cracking four years,” and another added, “6ft 3, can head a ball, we’re back.”

Others replied, “First proper Schumacher signing and it’s one we’ve been screaming out for years. Good start,” and “Got a good feeling about this move.”

But, the fact he has been handed a four-year contract has raised some eyebrows. While some Bolton fans believe this is a “statement” of how much the club trusts Dalby, others have voiced concerns.

One said, “Four years is a long time,” while another added, “I’m guessing the four year contract was a big reason why he chose us.”

Rival fans and even some Wrexham supporters also had their say. One wrote: “Really hard one to call for me. The SPL is not the strongest league overall, but maybe he can carry on his confidence from there. Think all Wrexham fans will wish him well.”

Others said, “Might get 5/6 goals that’s about it,” and “Wrexham reject, fallen a long way.”

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Steven Schumacher is delighted with Sam Dalby signing

Discussing his new signing, Bolton boss Steven Schumacher said: “He is a player whose progress we have monitored closely, and to bring him to the club, especially considering the strong interest from elsewhere, is a fantastic piece of business for us.

“Sam’s performances in Scotland last season spoke volumes about his capabilities. Crucially, he has really bought into the vision Fergal and I are building here at Bolton Wanderers.

“He gives us a different attacking profile with his physical presence and his eye for goal. At 25, he’s at an excellent age, with his best years ahead of him, and we’re excited to work with him and help him develop further.

“We were looking for a player who could add a different dynamic to our frontline, and Sam fits that requirement perfectly. I am confident he has the mentality and the quality to make a real positive contribution, and I’m sure our supporters will be eager to see him play.”

Dalby may only be 25-years-old, but he’s already a bit of a journeyman in footballing terms. Having started his career at Leyton Orient, he has since turned out for Leeds United, Watford, Wrexham, and Stockport County, among others.

There was talk of him potentially remaining with Wrexham after his displays North of the border, but that never came to fruition after the Red Dragons got promoted to the Championship.