ARGENTINE World Cup attacker Javier Saviola could be on his way to the Reebok.

The Barcelona player's agent is believed to have been speaking to Bolton Wanderers officials for the past two days and, although both clubs are keeping quiet, rumours are rife that Sam Allardyce has emerged as favourite to sign the former South American Player of the Year.

Arsenal, who were thought to be chasing Saviola's signature, have ruled out a move and, although Greek giants, Panathinaikos, have offered the Argentine World Cup ace a lucrative contract, Saviola wants to play in the Premiership.

The 24-year-old striker's agent, Alfredo Cabrera Brizuela, who confirmed Wanderers' interest a fortnight ago, is understood to have been in Bolton for the last two days.

Saviola, who has 34 international caps and has scored 10 goals, made three appearances at the recent World Cup.

The 1999 South American Footballer of the Year has made more than 100 appearances for Barcelona but has struggled to make an impression at the Nou Camp since moving from River Plate in 2001. He spent the 2004-05 season on loan at Monaco before returning to Spain last term when, once again on loan, he helped Seville win the UEFA Cup playing against Wanderers in the group stages.

Saviola's Barcelona contract is set to expire in 2007 and, although the European champions are prepared to let him go, they aim to recoup as much as possible of the £15m they paid River Plate.