Wigan Athletic have entered talks with Leeds United regarding a potential deal for Whites defender Jason Pearce to join the Latics, reports the Daily Mail.

FLW understands that Pearce is set to join Wigan
Wigan want to sign Jason Pearce from Leeds

The Elland Road outfit completed a deal to sign Palermo defender Sol Bamba earlier this week, subsequently meaning Pearce's first-team opportunities could be lessened.

The 27-year-old defender was the subject of Premier League interest in the summer transfer window from Burnley and Crystal Palace, as reported on FLW, however Malky Mackay's Wigan Athletic are now eyeing a move.

Pearce has been at Leeds United since 2012 after moving from Portsmouth, and he has accrued over 100 appearances during his time at the Yorkshire club.

The 6ft 1 defender spent a spell at AFC Bournemouth from 2007 to 2011 where he amassed 162 appearances for the Cherries.

Wigan Athletic are in desperate need of fresh impetus as they currently lie in 23rd position in the Sky Bet Championship.

Malky Mackay's side have thus far accumulated a mere 21 points from 27 league games, and lie five points adrift of safety in the division.

It has been a truly abysmal season for the Latics, and the signing of Pearce could help add a new element of experience that could help them stop leaking goals.

Wigan were defeated 1-0 by Huddersfield Town on Saturday courtesy of a solitary Conor Coady strike.

Meanwhile, Leeds United are eyeing a move for ex-Arsenal midfielder Fran Merida, as reported on FLW earlier this week.

The 24-year-old is currently a free agent after being released from Brazilian outfit Atletico Paranense, and FLW understands that Leeds boss Neil Redfearn is considering making a move for the midfielder.