Former Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi has reportedly been handed a Championship lifeline by Bolton Wanderers.

The 34-year-old has been on the search for a new club since being released by Crystal Palace earlier this year, and is thought to have since spent time training with five different sides.

Just days after Charlton Athletic apparently rejected the chance to take Ameobi on a free, The Bolton News reports that Neil Lennon is interested in signing the Nigeria international on a short-term contract.

The deal, which is said to be on a pay-as-you-play basis, could be completed ahead of Saturday's meeting with Leeds United.