Bolton Wanderers have seen their opening bid for Salford City forward Kelly Nmai rejected.
The 21-year-old is one of League Two’s brightest talents, but Salford are determined to resist offers amid growing Championship interest. The Dutch-born forward scored nine goals and registered four assists during the 2024/25 season, playing a key role in Karl Robinson’s side narrowly missing out on the play-offs.
Salford Stand Firm Over Nmai Valuation
The rejected bid underlines Bolton’s intent to continue bolstering their frontline following an active start to the summer transfer window. However, the Ammies—backed by the Class of ’92 ownership group including Gary Neville and David Beckham—remain determined to protect their top assets, with further bids anticipated.
Nmai, who has spent time in the academies of both Manchester United and Manchester City, enjoyed a true breakthrough campaign last term. His form has not only caught the attention of Bolton but also reportedly attracted other EFL clubs as well as interest from higher up the pyramid. Salford are said to be bracing for a busy summer of enquiries.
With Bolton already completing the signing of striker Sam Dalby from Wrexham and midfielder Xavier Simons from Hull City, manager Steven Schumacher is clearly focused on assembling a dynamic attacking unit. Nmai is viewed as a potential key component in that plan, should Wanderers return with an improved offer.
Football Insider previously reported that Salford also rejected a bid from Premier League side Burnley for teenager Kyrell Malcolm earlier this month. It suggests the Peninsula Stadium outfit are prepared to play hardball over their young talent as they plot another push for League Two promotion.
Nmai’s attacking intelligence, versatility across the frontline, and strong technical ability make him an appealing target for a club like Bolton, who narrowly missed out on promotion to the Championship in 2024/25.
Writer’s View
Bolton’s rejected bid for Kelly Nmai signals both ambition and patience—two traits likely to define their summer strategy. The 21-year-old’s rise at Salford mirrors the kind of trajectory Bolton have looked to tap into in recent windows: hungry, technically sound players from the lower leagues ready to take the next step.
While Salford will be reluctant to lose him, particularly after their near miss last season, it’s hard to imagine interest drying up here. Bolton’s recent track record in the transfer market suggests they may well return with an improved offer—and if they do, Salford may face a tougher decision. Either way, this feels like a transfer saga worth watching.
