Last updated on .From the section Inverness CT

Inverness Caledonian Thistle striker Billy Mckay has been given permission to speak to Wigan Athletic about a proposed move to the DW Stadium.

Northern Ireland international Mckay, 26, is out of contract at the end of the season.

Since joining the Highlanders from Northampton Town in 2011, he has scored 62 goals in 141 appearances.

Caley Thistle chairman Kenny Cameron says external-link Mckay is discussing terms "with a view to an immediate transfer".

Should the move be completed in the current transfer window, Wigan will likely have to pay a fee for McKay.

Billy Mckay's career stats Leicester, 2008-09: youth career, no first-team appearances Hinckley, loan, 2007-08: 1 goal in 2 appearances Northampton, 2009-11: 16 goals in 84 appearances I nverness, 2011-present: 62 goals in 141 appearances

"Following an approach from Wigan Athletic FC late yesterday afternoon and following discussions with the management team, the board of Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC agreed to allow Billy Mckay leave to travel to DW Stadium," said Cameron on the Inverness website.

"Billy has never hidden his ambition to compete at the highest possible level and has always conducted himself in a professional manner in this regard.

"We are grateful to Wigan Athletic FC for the courtesy shown in speaking to us before opening their discussions with the player."

So far this term, Mckay has scored 10 goals and Inverness manager John Hughes recently said he expected Mckay to leave at the end of the campaign.

"We are forever mindful of the risk of losing players during any transfer window and, as always, have contingency plans in place should agreement on personal terms be reached with Billy," added Cameron.