WIGAN ATHLETIC are set for a shock takeover by a wealthy Chinese group.

The League One outfit have been targeted by the Far East team who are poised to buy out veteran Dave Whelan’s club.

6 Dave Whelan is open to Wigan being taken over and looks set for a Far East deal Credit: PA:Press Association

6 Latics chief Paul Cook will hope a buy-out strengthens their promotion drive Credit: Rex Features

Latics chief Whelan has been open to a buy-out since stepping back from the running of the team - ironically after remarks about Chinese people.

Whelan brought in former Manchester City supreme Garry Cook and he has been secretly seeking buyers.

Cook was tempted back to English football from a top job in America but his contacts have come in handy to find a new owner.

Insiders reveal that a deal has been agreed and due diligence done. The Football League are expected to give the go ahead too.

The identity of the buyers has been kept secret and both boss Paul Cook and chairman David Sharpe will find out their fates soon.

Cook had taken Wigan to the top of League One while Sharpe has enjoyed his role as chief decision maker.

6 Wigan wideman Nathan Byrne closes on Nile Ranger as the League One leaders triumphed 3-0 over Southend at the weekend Credit: Rex Features

6 Southend midfielder Dru Yearwood takes on his Wigan counterparts Credit: Rex Features

6 Dave Whelan and Wigan have had an up-and-mostly-down few years - and after this promotion to the Championship in 2016 they were instantly relegated Credit: Getty Images - Getty

6 Wigan are top of the League One and could be set for a lucrative takeover Credit: Rex Features

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