Wigan Athletic look set to win the race to sign Joe Gelhardt on loan from Leeds United this month. 

Football League World first reported Wigan’s interest in reuniting with Gelhardt earlier in the month, with things motoring on after Patrick Bamford’s return from injury at Leeds and the club’s capture of Georginio Rutter.

The Athletic are now reporting that Gelhardt is on the cusp of returning to Wigan on loan.

The 20-year-old broke through into the Wigan first-team prior to his move at Leeds, playing 21 times for the Latics and scoring one goal, before leaving for Elland Road in the summer of 2020 amid the club’s financial struggle.

Since signing for Leeds, Gelhardt has played 41 times in the first-team, scoring two goals and registering seven assists.

He stepped off the bench last night in Leeds’ 5-2 win over Cardiff City in the FA Cup third round replay, laying on an assist for Bamford.

However, he’s started just once in the Premier League this season, with Jesse Marsch’s faith in 12-goal striker, Rodrigo. Leeds now have a depth of options in the role, with Bamford fit again and Rutter through the door.

It’s claimed that Gelhardt’s affiliation with Wigan means they are the club he wants to join, despite other interest from the Championship. Football League World understands that more than half the division were keen on striking a loan agreement with Leeds for the England youth international. 

Wigan sit bottom of the Championship table, with Kolo Toure’s side four points adrift of safety.

The Verdict 

What a coup this is for Wigan this January.

With so much interest in Gelhardt, the Leeds forward could have easily opted for a move further up the Championship table. However, he’s seemingly opting to return to his former club and bolster their bid to stay in the division.

If he can find his best form in-front of goal, he will give Toure’s side a real chance.

Thoughts? Let us know!