Chelsea interested in Wigan starlet Joe Gelhardt

Chelsea have reportedly stepped up their interest in a deal to sign Wigan Athletic starlet Joe Gelhardt, according to The Daily Star.

The Blues are one of a number of clubs keeping tabs on the striker as they contemplate a potential approach in January.

The same goes on to claim that Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, Everton and Tottenham Hotspur have also been keeping a close eye on the 17-year-old winger’s development in recent weeks.

Gelhardt, who joined the club when he was 10, has made seven Championship appearances for The Latics so far this season.

Despite strong interest from the Stamford Bridge outfit, the report says that Chelsea and other potential suitors only have a “slim” chance of being able to sign him in January, because Wigan are under no pressure to sell as things stand.

The Championship outfit are said to value the teenage forward at around £5m.

However, it remains to be seen whether Chelsea will be able to make any new signings at the start of 2020 as their Fifa transfer ban is still in place.