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Andy Ha

Who is Joe Gelhardt? The Wigan striker that Leeds want to sign ahead of Liverpool and Chelsea

Leeds United are interested in signing Wigan's Joe Gelhardt.

The highly-rated striker has been linked with a host of clubs amid Wigan's financial difficulties, and it is thought Gelhardt is one of their most valuable assets.

Chelsea, Liverpool, Tottenham and Everton have all reportedly sent scouts to keep a track of the teenager's progress this season.

Take a look below for all the information you need to know about the striker attracting interest from around the Premier League and even across Europe.

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Who is Joe Gelhardt?

Gelhardt is an 18-year-old striker who plays for Championship side Wigan Athletic.

He was born and grew up in Merseyside, but joined the Lactics as a 10-year-old. He has progressed through the youth system at Wigan and made his first team debut as a 16-year-old in the Carabao Cup tie with Rotherham.

Galhardt has since made 17 appearances in the Championship this season, scoring one goal.

The striker has also represented England at U18 level, scoring four goals in six appearances.

How has he performed recently?

The striker impressed during Wigan's run to the FA Youth Cup fifth round, scoring a hat trick against Hull in the fourth round encounter.

He has also made substitute appearances from the bench for the first team against Barnsley and Stoke in recent months.

Who else are interested?

Chelsea are one of a number of clubs said to be scouting the striker, with Liverpool said to be looking to fill the space in their development squad left by Bobby Duncan, who signed for Fiorentina.

Fellow Premier League clubs Everton, Wolves and Leicester have also sent scouts to watch the striker.

How much will he cost?

Gelhardt as one year remaining on his contract at Wigan, but the Championship club's financial difficulties may force them to seek a quick sale.

With the number of clubs interested, Leeds Live understands that signing Gelhardt would be a significant coup for the club.

Wigan are currently in the hands of administrators Begbies Traynor, including former Leeds chairman Gerald Krasner.

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