Luton are reportedly winning the race to sign ex-Bolton defender

Luton are reportedly winning the race to sign former Bolton Wanderers centre back George Johnston.

The 27-year-old has only recently been made a free agent, after seeing his five year stint at the Toughsheet Stadium ended following the Trotters winning promotion to the Championship via the League One play-offs. Johnston made 190 appearances for Bolton, including 49 last term where he played in the 1-1 draw against Town, but was released after the 4-1 victory over Stockport County at Wembley.

Football League World claimed last week that Town boss Jack Wilshere was looking to make the ex-Scotland youth international his first signing of the summer, although faced competition from several other clubs, including Scottish Premier League runners-up Hearts. The Bolton News has now stated that the Hatters are in pole position to make Kenilworth Road his next destination, as a report by chief football writer Marc Iles stated: “Luton Town are favourites to win the race to sign Wanderers defender George Johnston.

“Released by Bolton after five years, the centre-back was chased by a number of clubs, including Bradford City, Blackpool, Plymouth Argyle and Hearts. It is understood, however, that Jack Wilshere’s Hatters – who just missed out on the League One play-offs after a late surge - are his most likely destination once his contract at the Toughsheet Stadium comes to an end after putting together a strong contract offer."

Johnston had started his career at Liverpool, spending over a decade at Anfield, but left the Reds without playing a senior first team game in August 2019, joining Eredivisie side Feyenoord for a fee of around £500,000. Having made four appearances at the Stadion Feijenoord in two years, he also had a loan move to Wigan Athletic, before heading to Bolton.

Having been released by the Trotters, along with ex-Luton winger Carlos Mendes Gomes, then writing on his Instagram page, Johnston said: “After 5 unforgettable years, the time has come for me to say goodbye to Bolton Wanderers. From the moment I arrived, this club has meant so much to me. To wear the shirt 191 times, help bring home the Papa Johns Trophy, and be part of a team that achieved promotion to the Championship are memories I’ll carry with me forever.

“There have been incredible highs, tough moments, and everything in between. I’m truly grateful to everyone connected with this football club — my teammates, managers, staff, and supporters. Bolton will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m proud of everything we achieved together. Thank you for everything.”