Owen Coyle resigned to losing Johan Elmander as Galatasaray announce deal to sign Bolton striker

Johan Elmander, Bolton (Getty Images)

Related Links

Teams

Players

Bolton boss Owen Coyle admits Johan Elmander is likely to leave the club after Galatasaray claimed they have struck a deal with the striker.

A statement on the Turkish club’s website revealed they had come to an agreement with the Swedish forward, who will move on June 1 when his contract ends.

The statement on Friday read: “Galatasaray this morning sent a statement to IMKB (Turkish stock market) that they agreed with Johan Elmander in principle. We’ll inform the public once the final agreement is signed.”

Despite the claims from the Turkish club, Coyle insists a deal has not yet been struck, but admits he expects the striker to leave.

“Galatasaray have announced on their website they have agreed something with Johan,” Coyle said.

“I have spoken to Johan and certainly nothing has been signed. That is not to say it won’t be signed, maybe in the next couple of weeks but not before Sunday.

“Do I expect him to leave? In my heart of hearts, yes. These are the things you have to deal with as a manager. I am very comfortable with that.

“I have always felt and always known given the dialogue chairman Phil Gartside had with his representative they were probably looking for a new option.

“I personally wish Johan well if and when that comes about because he has worked ever so hard for me in training each and every day.

“When he has worn that shirt he has given me everything he has got in a number of positions and worked his socks off for the team. He is someone I have a very good relationship with.”