Coyle confirms wish to join Wanderers

"Owen Coyle has today reaffirmed his desire to leave Burnley and join Bolton Wanderers," a statement from Burnley said.

"Burnley will now enter discussions with Bolton due to the fact that compensation between the parties has yet to be agreed.

"There will be no further comment at this time."

Burnley now seem resigned to losing Coyle after confirming on Monday that the Scot had held discussions with Bolton who sacked manager Gary Megson last week. Coyle told Burnley chairman Barry Kilby of his decision on Monday.

Coyle's departure would be a big blow to Burnley's hopes of staying in the Premier League, especially as Bolton are likely to be one of the teams they are battling with to retain their Premier League status in the second half of the season.

He took over in November 2007 when they were in the Championship after Steve Cotterill was sacked. The following season he masterminded League Cup wins against Arsenal and Chelsea before losing to Tottenham Hotspur in the semi-finals.

Playing a brand of attractive, passing football Burnley reached the promotion playoffs last season and memorably beat Sheffield United at Wembley to return to the top flight of English football for the first time since 1976.

Despite a limited budget, Coyle's side adapted quickly to life in the Premier League, winning their first four home games including a 1-0 defeat of champions Manchester United.

Recent draws against Manchester City and Arsenal have helped Burnley stay clear of the relegation zone and they began the new year in 14th place, four places above Bolton who are in the bottom three.

Coyle, who spent two years at Bolton as a player, would be a popular choice for Bolton fans who never took to Megson despite him keeping them clear of relegation trouble last season.