Preston North End and Wigan Athletic are battling it out to the potential signing of Newcastle youngster, Dan Barlaser according to The Chronicle. 

The midfielder has spent some of this year's campaign on loan at League One club, Accrington Stanley, where he made 48 appearances in his time with the club.

He's seemingly made a good impression as well, with Wigan watching him in action whilst out on loan.

The 22-year-old scored three goals and had two assists to his name in this year's campaign.

Barlaser's contract with Newcastle expires in the summer of 2020, so it seems as though a loan spell away from St James' Park could be make or break for his career at the club.

He's made three appearances for Newcastle's first-team whilst they were in the Championship, but hasn't featured in the Premier League and Rafa Benitez seemingly not seeing a short-term future for him at the club.

But a successful loan spell this season could provide the Spaniard with a potential selection dilemma in the future, which is exactly what Barlaser will be after.

The Verdict: 

He's an exciting talent.

We've already seen that Wigan in particular have a good eye for young talent who they can develop with Reece Brown, and I wouldn't be surprised to see Barlaser join the Latics.

A player with a bright future, who will be keen to prove himself at a higher level than he's played already.