With the start of the new Championship campaign edging ever closer, Wigan Athletic boss Paul Cook will undoubtedly be wanting to strengthen his squad following the departures of Nick Powell and Callum McManaman.

Therefore, it is not at all surprising that the 52-year-old has been linked with a move for a Premier League forward in recent days.

According to Sun journalist Alan Nixon, Wigan are reportedly interested in signing Sam Gallagher from Southampton who could be surplus to requirements after Che Adams and Danny Ings made permanent moves to the St. Mary's Stadium on Monday.

If this is indeed true, it is imperative that Cook considers both the positives and the negatives that the 23-year-old could have on the Latics' fortunes next season before committing to a switch.

Keeping this in mind, we have set out two pros as well as two cons to Wigan sealing a deal for Gallagher based on his career to date.

Check them out below...

Pros

He has proven his worth in the Championship before

Although Gallagher struggled to get a look-in at Southampton last season having made just six appearances in total, his previous escapades in the Championship suggest that he could be a valuable addition to Wigan's current roster of players.

Whilst on loan at Blackburn Rovers two years ago, the striker fired in 11 goals for the club in the second-tier, a total which he will be confident of exceeding during the upcoming campaign if he does indeed move to the DW Stadium.

He could thrive under the guidance of Cook

Very much a traditional centre-forward who relies heavily on his aerial abilities as well as his sheer power, Gallagher could end up bullying opponents next season under the guidance of Cook.

Having nurtured the talents of Will Grigg and Reece James in recent years, the former Portsmouth boss may be the perfect man to aide the development of the Southampton forward.

By getting the very best out of Gallagher, Wigan will be in a fantastic position to better the 18th place finish they achieved during the 2018/19 campaign next May.

Cons

He may not be the answer to the club's attacking issues

When you consider that Wigan only managed to score a measly total of 51 goals in 46 games last season, it is clear that they need to make substantial improvements to their attacking options during the current transfer window.

However, given that Gallagher has only ever reached double figures once during his career, the former Birmingham City loanee is not guaranteed to set the Championship alight, especially if there isn't enough quality on offer in terms of service from the wide areas.

He could end up consuming the majority of Wigan's transfer budget

Given that young English players tend to command premium prices in today's market, Gallagher certainly won't be let go for cheap by Southampton this summer.

Therefore, Wigan may have to spend a considerable amount of money to lure him away from the Saints which may not be financially viable as it could leave Cook with an insufficient amount of funds to bolster his squad in other areas.