The most astute piece of business that Wigan Athletic can do this summer is ensure that when August 4th arrives, Nick Powell is lining up for them against Sheffield Wednesday.

The Latics surged to the League One title last season, shocking Manchester City in the FA Cup along the way, looking every inch the Championship side they aspired to be.

At the heart of that was one player, pulling the strings and making things happen.

Nick Powell wasn't the only standout performer for Wigan, but he was the one that caught the most eyes as they made their way back to the second tier at the first time of asking.

He was described as an 'unbelievable talent' by Simon Grayson, one of many superlatives aimed at the for Manchester United youngster.

Aston Villa were said to be interested in the player last season and a raft of bids was expected this summer, but so far he's remained at the DW Stadium, committed to the Wigan cause as much as anyone.

They'll be all the better for it to, because Grayson's assessment of Powell is spot on.

Powell scored 15 goals from midfield for Wigan last season, adding six assists as they won the title, but his all round play went beyond just that contribution.

On the ball he's confident, skilful and can produce the unexpected.

He was described as 'unplayable', in the Times no less, as Wigan knocked West Ham out of the FA Cup, another adjective that suits the 24-year old perfectly.

It looked for a moment as though Powell might go the same way as other wonder kids when his Manchester United career began to slide out of view.

The names of Billy Kenny, Francis Jeffers and Terry Cooke serve as a warning to young players that early stardom doesn't lead to riches.

As a teenager his £6m move from Crewe made a few headlines, but his performances didn't back up his promise.

England honours from U16 to U21 served to build the hype, but the end product simply wasn't as good as the potential suggested.

Powell played just nine times for the Red Devils, three times in the Premier League, but enjoyed a series of loan spells too.

Wigan, Leicester and Hull all took him, only the Latics gave him sufficient game time to impress.

When his Old Trafford dream ended, he made the short journey to the DW Stadium on a free transfer to rebuild his career.

It could be the best piece of business they've ever done.

Powell would surely fetch £10m or more if he were sold today and, if he continues his remarkable form this campaign, that number will only keep increasing.

At 24 he still has his best years ahead of him, but in his past there's more experience and character building disappointment than most players of his age.

He's wise and old but in the body of a thrilling youngster with the world at his feet.

Wigan must keep him this summer because if they do, he might be that special something that ensures they spend the entire campaign knocking on the door of the top six.