Wigan Athletic are deep into negotiations with Championship side Hull City over the proposed transfer of defender Charlie Hughes. However, the structure of the deal may require compromise to ensure completion.
The Tigers are determined to land the 20-year-old and have been trying for the last two weeks to make the deal happen. Their offer of £7million is not upfront and rather split into three sections and subject to performance based add ons, meaning the full price is not guaranteed.
This has held up the agreement as the Latics are reportedly more interested in getting a guaranteed amount up front to assist with their ambitions of challenging in League One this season. Such a large fee could make a world of difference in a competitive market which has been somewhat inflated by the big spending of rivals Birmingham City.
The defender has made 76 appearances since his debut for Wigan Athletic, scoring five goals and contributing two assists impressing in the third tier. His performances have attracted interest from a host of clubs, but Hull City lead the race, according to Alan Nixon.
The Latics endured a difficult season last year, but improved in the second half to build some momentum going into the 24/25 season. However, they were unable to turn that form into results as they were unable to stop Nathan Jones’ new look Charlton Athletic from taking all three points on the opening day. Defender Lloyd Jones scored the only goal of the game in the 81st minute.
There is still time left of the transfer window but fixtures will start to come thick and fast now the season has kicked off. If they are to take advantage of the incoming fee this window they will need the deal to be agreed sooner rather than later.