Leeds United expect their pursuit of Joe Gelhardt to go into next week while Wigan Athletic’s administrators hope to rope in Premier League clubs with bigger bids.
Talks have been very positive with the Latics’ 18-year-old prodigy and after visiting Thorp Arch last week the forward remained keen on a move to West Yorkshire.
As of last weekend, director of football Victor Orta was happy with where the transfer was at in terms of selling the club’s vision to Gelhardt, and negotiating a fee with the administrators.
LeedsLive understands little has progressed since the weekend and the move may not kick on again until next week.
Some of those with knowledge of the negotiations feel the Liverpudlian teen may yet hold out for firmer interest from Everton, or possibly Rangers, given Steven Gerrard is in charge at Ibrox.
However, United know with Marcelo Bielsa as head coach they have a proven track record of both improving young talent and giving it competitive pitch time as they head into the Premier League.
On Friday afternoon, Peterborough United chairman Darragh MacAnthony voiced his own opinion on United’s Gelhardt pursuit.
After BBC reported it would be a £1m deal for the striker MacAnthony said: “This kid is worth more, in my opinion.
“Fair play to Leeds getting this deal, but too cheap, in my opinion, if true.”
Helder Costa and Illan Meslier were the first arrivals of this transfer window, while Jack Harrison is expected to sign his third consecutive season-long loan deal soon too.
