 This was the second time in 2018 Bolton had failed to sign Lee, as in February 2018 Lee had agreed to join on loan, only for Crystal Palace Director of Football Dougie Freedman (who previously managed Bolton whilst Lee played there) to cancel the loan deal after it had been agreed due to an injury to Bakary Sako.Lee was packing to travel to Bolton when informed of this.On 6 September 2018, Lee signed for 2.