Paul Ince is being sensationally linked with the manager's job at Wigan Athletic.
The Mirror says Ince has made a stunning start as a boss and is currently riding high at the top of League Two with MK Dons after dramatically saving Macclesfield from the drop last season.
Whelan is believed to be in favour a rising star of management rather than an old hand - although ex-Everton boss Joe Royle is still being considered.