DANNY WARD has been given permission by  Bolton Wanderers to talk to Town over a  permanent move this summer.

It has been reported that the League I club have  agreed a six-figure fee for the 19-year-old, who has  stayed behind from the Trotters’ tour of the US.

Last term Ward arrived on loan at Town on  March 15 for the remainder of the season –  making seven appearances and scoring three  goals.

He made his debut as a substitute in the 1-0 win  over Brentford at Griffin Park on the same day.

Ward scored his first goal, which was the winner  away in the 3-2 victory at champions Brighton and  Hove Albion, which also happened to be the last  goal scored at the Withdean Stadium.

Ward also scored in the League I play-off  semi-final second-leg against Bournemouth.

Meanwhile, Alex Smithies came through his first match since mid-March as Town kicked off their friendly programme with a 1-0 win at Gateshead and beamed: “Bring on the new season.”

The 21-year-old keeper proved his recovery from a knee surgery with a clean-sheet show against the non-league side.

Now he’s looking forward to fighting it out with experienced duo Ian Bennett and Nick Colgan and youngster Lloyd Allinson for the stopper’s spot.

“It feels fantastic to be back,” said Smithies.

“I had a stressful time last season when I was trying to get back fit but had a few setbacks.