there is a loophole on every corner in Thailand you just got to know how to jump thu them..
if you not want put 800.000bt in an account for what ever reason then you use agent... if your happy to do so then no problem..you will get your visa & your extension...there is just a price to pay as with everything in this corrupt country....
but on renewal.. after 12month living in Thailand with a thaibank account and payments going into the account for his survival in Thailand....would that not give him 12 month history on bank statement...?