Whelan Has 'Great Hopes' Of Getting Martinez

Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan says he has high hopes of appointing Roberto Martinez to replace Steve Bruce as their new manager.

Earlier today there were reports that the two clubs were 'miles away' on their valuation as they discussed a compensation fee for the Spaniard.

Despite Huw Jenkins wanting more than £2m in compensation for the 35 year-old, he still remains Wigan's number one target.

Whelan is hopeful appointing Martinez but says nothing can happen until they get permission to speak with him. He told Sky Sports News:

'I have asked for permission to talk to Roberto Martinez.

'Until I get that permission, I can't talk to him. Once the Swansea chairman says to me I've got permission, I will talk to him. If he tells me I've not got permission, I can't talk to him and we will look elsewhere.

'I have got great hopes that I can get Roberto Martinez back to Wigan. He is my number one choice, but I've not got permission to talk to him.

'I need permission from the Swansea chairman before I can even say 'hello' to Roberto.'

We should know within 48 hours where Martinez's future lies, and hopefully it'll be fantastic news for Swansea City fans.

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