Bolton replace Gary Cahill with Tim Ream

Bolton Wanderers on Thursday announced the signing of American defender Tim Ream from the New York Red Bulls for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old centre-back, who spent a week training with the Premier League club in 2011, has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract.

Ream arrives just over a week after Bolton sold their England international centre-back Gary Cahill to Chelsea.

The transfer is subject to international clearance and immigration formalities.

"First and foremost, we are absolutely delighted to secure Tim's services," said Bolton coach Owen Coyle.

"He is a US international, a player that year on year has progressed and got better, and he will continue to do that.

"He was trailed by a number of clubs, including West Brom and also Arsenal, who tried to sign him in the summer, so it is great that he sees his future here.

"Tim is everything that we want in the players we are bringing to the club when we spend in the transfer market.

"He is young, has a tremendous attitude and a winning mentality. I know he will fit in well with the rest of the squad here at Bolton."

Ream made his debut for the USA against South Africa in November 2010 and has seven international caps.