WIGAN hope to tie down top young keeper Sam Tickle to a new contract — despite a growing fan club.
Tickle, 21, was recently called up to England Under-21s.
Even though he is being eyed by several clubs, including Premier League Everton, he could be open to fresh terms.
Tickle made his senior debut for Wigan and kept a clean sheet on the final day of last season after their relegation from the Championship.
And his displays in pre-season persuaded boss Shaun Maloney to make him his first-choice over Ben Amos.
So far he has made 29 appearances this term for the League One club.
Meanwhile, we revealed how Ipswich have joined the group chasing Wigan’s promising centre-back Charlie Hughes.
Tractor Boys chief scout Sam Williams checked on the defender last week.
And he has decided that the 20-year-old fits the Championship club’s profile.
Hughes has also been tracked by West Ham this season.
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Now he could be sold by League One Latics — who may even have to fend off bids during January.
Ipswich’s priority is a new striker.
But adding an up-and-coming defender at the right price is also an option.