Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Nathan Baxter has expressed his desire to extend his stay at the club as his contract approaches its expiration this summer.
The 26-year-old shot-stopper, who returned to the starting XI for the first time in 11 league games during Bolton’s 1-0 defeat to Stockport County, is eager to earn a new deal and continue his journey with the Trotters.
Baxter’s commitment to Bolton
Despite speculation surrounding his future, particularly after losing his place to Luke Southwood following Steven Schumacher’s arrival as head coach, Baxter remains focused on proving his worth.
“I have not been communicated by the club in any way, but to be fair, I think it’s just a case of focusing on each game as it comes. I do get lots of messages asking, ‘Why didn’t you sign a contract?’ But that hasn’t been the case. I love it at this football club. I absolutely love it here.”
Baxter has been a key figure at Bolton since signing on a free transfer in 2023, making 65 appearances for the club. His passion for the team and the local community is evident, as he revealed his deep attachment to the club and its supporters.
“I love living up here. I bought a house here. I love this area. I love playing in front of these supporters,” he added.
Nathan Baxter Career So Far
Baxter joined Chelsea at age eight, winning the FA Youth Cup and UEFA Youth League in 2015–16. He had loan spells at Metropolitan Police and Solihull Moors before joining Woking in 2017, where he played 48 games, the most minutes of any Chelsea loanee that season. In 2018, he moved to Yeovil Town, setting a club record with six consecutive clean sheets.
He won five end-of-season awards before joining Ross County in 2019. After loans at Accrington Stanley and Hull City, where he had the highest save percentage in the Championship, he left Chelsea in 2023. Baxter signed a two-year deal with Bolton Wanderers, rejecting a move to Maccabi Haifa.
Writer’s view
Baxter’s passion for Bolton is clear, and his desire to secure a new contract is backed by his commitment on and off the pitch. His experience and leadership could be invaluable as the Trotters push for promotion. However, with the club yet to open talks over an extension, it remains to be seen whether they see him as part of their long-term plans.
If Bolton do secure a Championship place, Baxter’s performances in the remaining fixtures could prove crucial in determining his future at the club.
