Wigan Athletic Set For Late Fight To Keep Key Star

Wigan Athletic are set for a late fight to keep goalkeeper Sam Tickle this month amid interest from Championship duo Birmingham City and Preston North End, according to journalist Alan Nixon.

The 21-year-old has played every minute of the Latics League One campaign this season, playing a pivotal role in Shaun Maloney’s team. His form for the Lancashire side earned him his first call-up to the England under-21 side last September, although he failed to make an appearance.

This has been Tickle’s breakthrough campaign, having played Wigan’s final game of last season against Rotherham United as they played their final Championship fixture following their relegation to the third tier. He also committed his future to the club last year, signing a new deal at the DW Stadium that is set to run until 2026.

Despite that, the Lancashire club are well aware that he has caught the eye this season, and reports emerged last month that an improved contract was being prepared for the academy graduate.

There was Premier League interest before the end of the summer window, prompting Maloney to praise the young shotstopper:

“I knew within about four weeks of being here that Sam, I wouldn’t say nailed on, but that I would be giving him every opportunity to be No.1.

“I really wanted to see how he’d do at the end of last season, when he played against Rotherham, when we had the pay issue.

“So I knew maybe by the beginning of March that we had a special goalkeeper on our hands.”

It now appears as if there could be a late scrap for his signature before the current transfer window closes next week, with both Birmingham City and Preston North End accredited with interest. Nixon states that both are weighing up a move, with Preston in particular considering an approach.

The Lilywhites could still lose their first choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman this week, whilst Birmingham are in the market for a long-term successor to veteran John Ruddy.

Wigan are continuing to work on fresh terms after what has been a season that has arguably steadied the ship. They began the campaign on -8 points following two separate point deductions but have comfortably moved into midtable after some recent good form.

Writer’s View

Sam Tickle is a prime example of why academies are so important to lower league teams. He is a player who they have developed and could now generate some serious income.

Whilst Wigan’s preference will be to retain the services of their number one goalkeeper, they know that bigger things are probably on the horizon. It appears as if the youngster is happy to remain at the DW Stadium for the time being though, especially with there being little danger of him losing his place in the team.

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