Wigan chief Steve Bruce has confirmed he is keen to sign Scotland Under-21 striker Ross McCormack from Motherwell but denied a deal is imminent.
Bruce played down reports the striker would sign a pre-contract deal with Wigan this week.
"That is not quite true," said Bruce.
"We have had negotiations with Motherwell, we have opened discussions.
"We are keen and interested in the player, but that's the way it is at the moment.
"But we are interested, yes.
"One thing that is for certain is that nothing will be done now."