Bolton Wanderers are set to sign former Spain captain and Real Madrid defender Fernando Hierro.

“I’ve had talks with Hierro and his representatives over the weekend and he is keen to come to Bolton,” Bolton manager Sam Allardyce told the club’s website.

“I am confident a deal can be done during the early part of this week.”

Hierro was released by Real in July 2003 after 14 years with the Spanish club and he spent last season at Qatar’s Al Rayyan.

“He has a massive pedigree and I believe, despite him not playing top football in the last year, that he will be a great asset to Bolton Wanderers. His experience and ability will add much needed strength to our defensive line,” Allardyce added.

Hierro, 36, will link up again with former Real Madrid team mate Ivan Campo, who joined Bolton in August 2002.