The career of Nick Powell looked set for the top heights in the sport when he arrived at Manchester United back in 2012, signing from Crewe Alexandra for a reported £6 million.
But the England international from levels U16 up to U21 failed to live up to expectations and was sent out on a host of loan moves between 2013 and 2016.
Wigan were the first club to take the talented attacker into their ranks on a temporary basis, during a season in which he shone scoring seven league goals across 31 appearances domestically. Following that spell with the Latics, he also spent time with both Leicester City and Hull City, but those were disappointing stints in which he was unable to impress.
Wigan then came calling once again in 2016 and Powell was snapped up on a free transfer as he put pen to paper on a promising three-year deal, one which he hoped would help revive his stuttering career. He’s done exactly that throughout his time back at the DW Stadium, having since become one of the key men in his current home surroundings.
Wigan were regarded at 23/20 with bet365 in the Championship betting to get the better of Millwall in their final domestic outing of this long and testing campaign.
This term they have struggled during the course of proceedings but managed to avoid a devastating relegation back down to League One. Powell has been one of the strongest and most pivotal players in that feat, having netted eight goals in 31 games this season.
But, as is the modern game, any climb up the career ladder with impressive performances and consistency across a campaign will undoubtedly attract attention from other sides. That’s the case now with Powell, who is still only 25 years of age and holds a big future ahead, if he can continue to shine and produce solid displays.
Recent reports have suggested that Old Firm clubs Celtic and Rangers are both keen on acquiring the Crewe-born midfielder, with the two Scottish giants preparing to make a bid for him this coming summer transfer window.
So could Wigan be about to lose one of their prized assets, despite avoiding relegation to League One this season? Manager Paul Cook will hope to retain his services and build his future side with Powell still within his usual starting line-up but he may face the daunting prospect of losing him, particularly if Scottish Premiership champions Celtic come calling.
The Bhoys may be in a division which is known to be dominated by themselves but the offer of Champions League or Europa League football is always a bonus for any young player potentially weighing up a switch to the Glasgow outfit.
Although, they aren’t giving up without a fight as Wigan are aiming to tie him down with a new contract. But will Powell accept and show some loyalty to the club he has rebuilt his reputation with? We’ll find out in the coming months when the summer market opens once again.
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