Sky Bet Championship side Wigan Athletic have made "major strides" in their approach to sign Nottingham Forest defender Danny Fox, according to reports from reliable journalist Alan Nixon.

The 32-year-old has been linked with a move to the DW Stadium for the last couple of weeks, with the Latics reportedly prepared to pay around £200,000 - print edition of The Sun (23/01, page 51) - to land the experienced defender. The former Southampton man was said to be mulling over a move to Paul Cook's men, but would only join the Lancashire outfit if they offered him a long-term deal.

But reports from Nixon now claim that the Latics have made "major strides today" in their quest to land the centre-half, and expects a deal to be done before the transfer window slams shut in just over a week.

Fox, after enduring a difficult few years at the City Ground, has emerged as a real fans' favourite and a regular for Forest this season - the defender has made 21 appearances this term, but is yet to feature under new boss Martin O'Neill after missing the last game against Bristol City through suspension.

Fox is in fact back in contention for this weekend's clash, where funnily enough, Forest host Wigan at the City Ground.

The Reds currently sit 12th in the league, seven points off the play-off spots after winning just one win of their last eight games.

The Verdict

I think Forest would be making a mistake letting Fox go.

£200,000 is practically nothing in this league anymore, and although he may be getting on a bit now, he still has real quality and leadership in defence.

Forest are short in their defensive options, so letting Fox go would be controversial to say the least.

Thoughts? Let us know!