Nottingham Forest defender Danny Fox will leave the club for Wigan Athletic, only if the Latics offer him a long-term contract, according to reports from The Sun (23/1/19, page 51).

The experienced defender has been the subject of serious interest from Paul Cook's men, who is looking to bolster his side ahead of a relegation dog-fight this term.

The Latics, according to reports, have submitted a £200,000 bid for the 32-year old, who has been a regular figure in defence for Forest under Aitor Karanka this term - but the centre-half, who can also play at left-back, will only move to the DW Stadium provided the Latics hand him a long-term deal.

But the former Southampton man, who has made 21 appearances in all competitions for the Reds this term, is yet to make an appearance under Martin O'Neill, after being sent off against Reading before the 66-year old took the reins of the East Midlands club.

Fox was seen as an unpopular figure at the City Ground over the past couple of years, but made real strides under Karanka, temporarily being handed the captaincy for the Reds this term and emerging as a fans' favourite for some.

Forest currently sit 12th in the Sky Bet Championship table, seven points off the top six after winning just one win in their last eight games, after being defeated by Bristol City last week.

The Verdict

It's fair enough from Fox, at his age, he doesn't just want a short-term deal, he wants security.

It'll be interesting to see whether O'Neill lets Fox leave, or puts faith in the 32-year old and keeps playing him.

He's been fantastic for the large part this season, but his form has deteriorated in recent weeks.