06.14.2005:Diouf Ready to Sign with Bolton

from soccernet.com:

DAKAR, June 14 (Reuters) - Senegal striker El Hadji Diouf says he is on the brink of completing a permanent transfer from European champions Liverpool to Premier League rivals Bolton Wanderers.

Diouf has been both controversial and successful at the Reebok. (LaurenceGriffiths/GettyImages)

'You are going to be the first to know. I'm going to sign for Bolton for four years,' Diouf told the Senegalese daily L'Observateur on Tuesday.

Diouf spent last season on loan to Bolton.

'It gives me great pleasure. I am very happy to be able to play for Bolton next season,' the former African Player of the Year was quoted as saying.

Diouf joined Liverpool from French club Lens for 10 million pounds ($18.10 million) in 2002.

He failed to shine at Anfield but rediscovered his form with Bolton, scoring nine league goals to help the club finish sixth and secure a spot in next season's UEFA Cup.