Wigan Athletic would love to sign Joe Gelhardt back from Leeds United, sources have exclusively revealed to Football League World as the forward closes in on a temporary Elland Road exit. 

Gelhardt left Wigan for Leeds back in the summer of 2020 amid the Latics’ financial troubles. The young forward had made 21 appearances for his boyhood club before embarking on Leeds’ Premier League challenge with them.

Last season, Gelhardt emerged on the first-team scene for Leeds and registered four goal involvements in the Premier League, playing a crucial part in keeping the Whites in the top-flight under Jesse Marsch.

However, minutes have been harder to come by this season, with Gelhardt starting just one of his 14 league appearances.

Leeds are now closing in on the signing of Georginio Rutter from Hoffenheim and, as a result of that, are planning on giving Gelhardt permission to move out on loan.

Football League World understands that Wigan would be keen on reuniting with the 20-year-old this window.

Kolo Toure is looking to have a busy month with Wigan, who sit rock bottom of the Championship table and three points adrift of safety after four straight defeat. If they want Gelhardt, though, they will have to overcome serious competition from across the EFL.

A report from Leeds All Over at the beginning for December confirmed interest from the bottom third of the Championship, whilst The Athletic reported over the weekend that Swansea City were keen on signing Gelhardt too.

Gelhardt has scored two goals and registered five assists in 39 appearances across all competitions for Leeds’ senior side.