Allardyce eyes young talent

Sam Allardyce will be on the lookout for a different type of player this summer.

Allardyce has often gone for older, more experienced players because of the financial situation at The Reebok Stadium, but looks set to change his transfer strategy this pre-season.

The Bolton boss has already begun his search for new players as he looks to build a squad capable of sustaining a European challenge after The Trotters went on a poor run towards the end of the season that put an end to their Uefa Cup hopes.

"We do need a stronger and younger squad going forward," confirmed Allardyce on the club's official website.

"All my focus will be geared to bringing in the players we need to improve our standing.

"This season has shown that we need more quality. An extra two to three percent could have been the difference in getting back into Europe or reaching a major cup final.

"We need to strengthen in all departments. The whole focus in our recruitment strategy is to bring in younger players, who have the experience in playing top flight football and are willing to adapt to the English game quickly.

"The bottom line on recruiting younger is that players in that range cost a lot more money than we have paid previously.

"The expectation levels have been raised and we have to match that ambition and desire. It boils down to sustaining our short and long-term future. To achieve that we do need better players.

"I have earmarked a number of quality players and over the next few months the process will begin in bringing my targets to the club.

"If I am successful, we will have a very attractive looking squad for next season."

Allardyce has been linked with an audacious swoop for Crystal Palace striker Andy Johnson.

Bolton have reportedly offered £7 million for the player's services to beat off competition from Wigan and Everton.

That figure is twice Bolton's previous record signing and would show the Bolton board's confidence in Allardyce.

Johnson is thought to be unhappy at the prospect of another season in The Championship after missing out on Sven Goran Eriksson's final 23-man World Cup squad.