Wigan Athletic on course for loan star setback

The 26-year-old midfielder was a revelation during his season-long loan from League One rivals Plymouth Argyle.

He scored eight times in 48 appearances for Latics, which saw him sweep the board at the club's end-of-season awards.

Hopes were initially very high of Wright - who hails from north west - putting pen to paper on a permanent contract.

Indeed, the player himself was more than open to the possibility – should the deal be right for all parties.

"We'll see what the summer brings," said Wright at the beginning of last month. "I feel I'm in a good position.

"Obviously it's been tough for the team but, on a personal level, it's been a very enjoyable season for me. My numbers have been good, and that's exactly what I wanted from the loan.

"I've really enjoyed playing in front of the fans here, they've made me feel like one of their own, they've really appreciated the way I play, and the work I put in.

"With the goals and assists I've contributed, I hope they feel I've repaid their faith in me.

"I've absolutely loved my time here, I've loved the location - near where I'm from - and Wigan will be at the forefront of my mind when I do decide my future.”

However, as a free agent, he was obviously an attractive proposition for a number of other clubs, which is where Latics have been forced out of the running.

Gary Caldwell made no secret of his desire to hold on to the player, who also said hugely positive things about both the club and the new manager.

Latics made their pitch to Wright, but it has fallen short of offers his agent has received from elsewhere.

One of those is understood to have come from Scottish Premiership outfit Hibernian, who signed Wright's former Latics team-mate Jason Kerr – who was released at the end of last season – on a two-year deal on Tuesday evening.

Wright was quick to replied to Kerr’s signing announcement with a couple of clapping emojis on social media.

Kerr’s reply – a green heart with a wink emoji – was intriguing to say the least.

Hibs have the luxury of European football to offer the player, with them entering the UEFA Conference League at the second qualifying round following their fifth-place finish last season.

However, Wright is also understood to have received offers from clubs on the continent, which would give him European football on an even more regular basis.

Nothing has yet been agreed. But with clubs starting to return to training next week ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, the clock is clearly ticking.

Latics have made two signings so far this summer - former favourite Max Power from Bradford City, and Connor Barrett from Walsall.

Given they released eight players - including Kerr - this summer, as well as seeing Wright and five other loan players clear their lockers, the need for new blood is immediate.

None of the nine players who were offered new terms at the end of last season have so far committed to staying, while a further five have been made available for transfer.