Milton Keynes Dons' Max Dean is the subject of a heated transfer battle, with Bolton Wanderers facing stiff competition for the 22-year-old striker. According to reports, Gent has turned down a £1million bid from Wanderers, citing a valuation that is too low.
What happened?
Bolton Wanderers have been linked with a move for Max Dean, a 22-year-old striker who has been impressing in Belgium with KAA Gent.
Why it matters for Milton Keynes Dons
The transfer battle for Dean highlights the growing interest in the MK Dons' star, who has been a key player for the club in recent seasons.
What comes next?
As the transfer window heats up, it remains to be seen whether Bolton Wanderers will be able to secure a deal for Dean, or if another club will swoop in to steal the striker.
Milton Keynes Dons are currently 2nd in League Two, with 86 points from 46 games, and a +41 goal difference. They have scored 86 goals and conceded 45 this season. Their next fixture is against Luton on January 16, 2027.
In related news, Bolton Wanderers are also reportedly interested in signing Johnny Kenny on a second loan spell from Celtic. The Ormskirk-born striker can operate in a number of positions and is well known to Bolton's sporting director, Fergal Harkin, and their head of European scouting, Laurent D'Affnay.
Dean moved to Belgium for £1.7million in 2024, after scoring 20 goals in 43 appearances for MK Dons. He has since scored 20 goals in 53 games for Gent, and has played in European competition. Despite suffering a serious knee injury that ruled him out of action for 10 months, Dean has made a full recovery and has started both of Gent's Conference League games this season before being dropped to the bench in last night's 1-0 win against IFK Gothenburg.
