Sheffield Wednesday pulled out of a deal for Wigan Athletic playmaker Nick Powell due to his wage demands, it has been reported.

The Owls had been keen on a move for the 25-year-old, who is set to leave Wigan following the expirations of his contract at The DW Stadium at the end of the season, but The Sun have now revealed that Wednesday's Championship rivals Stoke City are set to complete the signing of the former Manchester United man.

According to The Sheffield Star, Wednesday enquired about the availability of Powell but elected not to pursue a deal for Powell due to his high wage demands, leaving Steve Bruce to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements.

Powell scored eight goals in 32 Championship appearances for The Latics this season, helping them to secure their Championship safety in their first season back in the second tier after winning the League One title at the first attempt last year.

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The Verdict

Given Powell's undoubted ability, this may be a source of frustration for fans and officials alike at Sheffield Wednesday.

Even so, it seems like a smart move from The Owls not to pay what they felt were too high wage demands.

That could have restricted them in terms of other dealings, while also leading to potential difficulties when discussing contracts with players at the club on lower wages than those wanted by Powell, so Wednesday may well have dodged a bullet here.

Thoughts? Let us know!