The Lower Tiers understands that Bolton Wanderers are set to sign Rapid Vienna attacker Thierry Gale.
In the early hours of this morning, a journalist from Barbados — Gale’s home country — reported that Bolton Wanderers had submitted a bid for the 23-year-old winger, alongside Scottish sides Aberdeen and Dundee United. Now, The Lower Tiers have been told that Bolton’s bid is the most substantial, indicating the club’s serious intent to bring the dynamic forward to the University of Bolton Stadium.
Gale, who primarily operates from the left wing, has quietly built a solid reputation in European football since leaving the Caribbean. After starting his career at Notre Dame SC in Barbados, he made the bold move to Hungary in 2018, joining Budapest Honvéd at just 16. His development there was steady, leading to a successful stint at Georgian outfit FC Dila, where his pace, flair, and eye for goal caught the attention of bigger clubs.
Rapid Vienna secured his services in 2023 for a reported £800,000. In Austria, Gale added to his growing CV, racking up goals and assists at a high level. His speed, technical ability, and versatility across the front line have made him a sought-after player — and one who fits the profile Bolton boss Steven Schumacher is keen to add to his promotion-chasing side.
The Trotters are believed to have tabled a lucrative package that exceeds what Aberdeen and Dundee United can offer — not only financially, but in terms of Gale’s potential role within the squad. The club views him as a player who can provide immediate impact in League One while also developing into a Championship-calibre talent, should Bolton achieve promotion this season.
Rapid Vienna are open to selling, but only for a fee that reflects their initial investment and Gale’s growing value. Sources close to the negotiations say Bolton’s bid meets those expectations, and the deal is done.
With pre-season in full swing, Bolton will be hoping to complete the signing swiftly to integrate Gale into the squad ahead of their season opener. When confirmed, this will mark one of the club’s most ambitious signings in recent years — and a signal of intent as they aim for a return to the Championship.
