Paper Talk: Flitcroft muscle is targeted

The Blackburn skipper is believed to be top of the Latics manager's shopping list this summer as he looks to strengthen the squad for another stab at promotion.

It is thought he tried to sign Flitcroft before the transfer deadline but got no joy out of Rovers.

Now he will try again with Jewell anxious to add some experience to the engine room.

Gary Flticroft

Whether Flitcroft would be prepared to drop down a level after Rovers secured their Premiership future is open to question, while matching his personal terms could also be a problem.

But Jewell has shown his persuasive side in the past, the signing of Jason Roberts earlier this year a prime example.

There's no complaint from Jewell about the performances of Jimmy Bullard and Jason Jarrett in the centre of midfield.

But he feels some extra experience would be a big boost as Latics battle against Wolves, Leeds and co in a strong First Division next term.

Jewell released Gareth Farrelly at the end of his short-term contract this week, freeing up space for another midfielder.

At present, the only other midfielders on the books are Tony Dinning, Mike Flynn and Paul Mitchell.

Dinning has long been out of favour, while Flynn and Mitchell are both weighing up new contract offers from the club.

Midfield is not the only area of the squad Jewell is looking to strength in the aftermath of their seventh place finish.

A new centre-half looks on the cards especially as Jason de Vos is unhappy with the new terms offered and is talking to other clubs.

Speculation is also mounting that Latics will go back in for Southampton right-back Chris Baird.

They tracked him for much of last season, and with the Northern Ireland international now back at Saints after a loan spell at Watford, they could make their move.

David Graham

And another striker could be on the cards, with Torquay front man David Graham linked with a switch to the JJB.

Jewell says he understands why record scorer Andy Liddell and de Vos are considering offers to play elsewhere.

Liddell has stated he won't be accepting Latics' offer of a new one-year deal and is set to sign for Sheffield United.

De Vos is also unhappy with a similar deal and is speaking to other clubs.

Jewell said: "Andy is in demand and I'm sure Jason won't be short of offers.

"They have to do what they think is right for themselves and I've no problem with that.

"One thing I have always banged on about is these lads have given me everything and deserve to look after themselves.

"If they decide not to stop here, I will wish them all the best at their new clubs.
"I know that Lids wants to play more first team football and I totally understand that."
Source: Wigan Evening Post.

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