Chairman to chase oriental star

Reports in Korea claim Wigan are closing in on a move for striker Chu-young Park - the former Asian Young Player of the Year.

The 23-year-old, who has scored 13 goals in 26 matches for South Korea, plays for FC Seoul - which is reportedly where chairman Dave Whelan is going to watch him before ratifying the deal.

Park, no relation to Manchester United's Ji-sung Park, has scored an impressive 43 goals in 86 league games and looks ready for a move to Europe.

Whelan is believed to be heading to Korea this weekend to watch Park - who has been singled out by Steve Bruce - and the signing of the frontman could prove to be a lucrative move for Latics.

Merchandising and sponsorship revenue could be greatly boosted by the appearance of an oriental star at the JJB Stadium and Whelan is thought to be keen to explore it - if the player is good enough.

Wigan need another forward after loaning King to Hull, and the tricky Park would provide an excellent contrast to the power of Emile Heskey up front.