JLLOYD SAMUEL is poised to become Sammy Lee's first capture as manager of Bolton Wanderers Football Club.

The 26 year old defender will join the Club on July 1 on a free transfer from Aston Villa and will pen a four-year contract.

Samuel joined the Villa Park outfit as an apprentice in 1997 and signed professional forms two years later. After a lengthy run in the first team in the 2001/2002 season, he was called into the England under 21 squad. He has made over 150 first appearances for the West Midlands outfit.

Lee was understandably thrilled with the full-back's signature and he believes Samuel will become a major asset for the Club.

He said: "I'm delighted that Jlloyd will join us and I think he will be an excellent signing. He's versatile and will offer us quality in a number of positions, which is vital for our squad. He's English, has youth on his side and I think he will give us a lot."

The Wanderers boss also confirmed that he will be working hard during the close season to bring in more quality recruits.

"There's activity going on all the time even though it's the close season," he added. "Just because there are no games it doesn't mean that there isn't any activity. We are always looking to strengthen the squad with quality additions."

Samuel will be the fourth recruit of the summer, joining Zoltan Harsanyi, Blerim Dzemali and Gerald Cid at the Reebok Stadium in the summer.