Onuoha in Latics link

Wigan are reportedly leading the chase for Manchester City's out-of-favour £4million-rated defender Nedum Onuoha.

The England Under-21 international, who has been approached to play for the senior Nigeria squad, is struggling to force his way into City boss Mark Hughes' back line this season due to Micah Richards, Tal Ben Haim, Richard Dunne and Pablo Zabaleta all ahead of him in the pecking order for the central defence and right-back positions.

As a result he is becoming frustrated at Eastlands and is thought to be looking for a move to secure regular first-team action with another Premier League side.

That has led to reports claiming Wigan boss Steve Bruce could be plotting a January transfer window raid for Onuoha to bolster his back line at the JJB Stadium. Several other clubs are also thought to be interested, but the fact he would not have to relocate if he joined Wigan would no doubt put them in the driving seat for his signature.