Championship trio 'looking to make offers' for Wigan Athletic starlet

The Scotland Under-21 international has found himself a wanted man after bursting onto the scene this season.

After attracting enquiries last summer from Premier League outfits Tottenham and Sheffield United, Championship side Barnsley last week saw an offer rejected out of hand

Administrator Paul Stanley told Wigan Today earlier this week he expected Joseph to remain with Latics for the rest of the season, and that they were certainly not encouraging any more bids for him.

But as the countdown continues to Monday's 11pm deadline, the administrators have revealed a trio of Championship clubs may not be so easily dissuaded.

"Many fans are asking about Kyle Joseph following various stories put out on social media," said the admins in their weekly statement. "Kyle’s attitude throughout the speculation around his future has been first class.

"He has concentrated on his football and displayed a maturity beyond his years.

"Despite the rumours on social media, as at 10am on Friday, there has been only one offer received, and this has been rejected.

"We are aware, however, that at least three Championship clubs have indicated they are looking to make offers.

"The club is not actively looking for bids and there is no plan, either from the player or the club, to accept any offers at this stage.

"Any decisions on player movements in and out will continue to be made with full input from the club’s football management team."

The admins also reiterated their desire to back acting manager Leam Richardson as much as possible - with the obvious confines in which they're working.

"As fans will be aware, three new signings were made last week (Zach Clough, George Johnston and Corey Whelan) and one (Funso Ojo) has been signed this week," continued the statement.

"Adam Long has also signed a new contract with the club.

"The manager and his staff have identified targets and approaches have been made to various clubs and players to try and strengthen the team to try and stay in the division. "Most of these will be loans or short-term contracts.

"So far, all requests from the manager have been met by the administrators and we are all sensibly working within a budget which will see the club survive until the end of the season, whatever the outcome of the sale of the club."

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