Rochdale talisman Nathaniel Mendez-Laing could be close to signing for Wigan Athletic – but perhaps Wolves should give him another chance.
Eight years after making his senior bow, Nathanial Mendez-Laing is finally starting to come good. In fact, the last few months at Rochdale have been arguably the most impressive of his career as this most erratic of wingers adds further end product to his already impressive skillset.
The 25-year-old has hit ten goals in both of his two seasons at Spotland. And his influential performances in 2016/17 led the club to the verge of the League One play-off positions, only to miss out by four points.
Consequently, with his contract expiring in a matter of weeks, it’s no surprise that Mendez-Laing has attracted interest from elsewhere. HITC sources told us that Rochdale are dreaming of keeping the winger for another season but Wigan Athletic, who are attempting to rebuild their squad following their relegation back to the third tier, have made him their top summer target.
The question, however, is whether Mendez-Laing deserves an opportunity at a higher level after performing exceptionally in the third tier.
Laing time coming
The Birmingham-born flyer started his career at Wolverhampton Wanderers but, after failing to make a single league appearance, was shipped out to Peterborough United in 2012. It’s fair to say he has unfinished business at Molineux.
And with Wolves boss Paul Lambert facing an almighty challenge hanging onto talismanic, top scoring wideman Helder Costa amid reports almost every team in the Premier League is plotting a summer swoop, Wolves may need to sound out reinforcements.
Though Mendez-Laing’s return would hardly inspire fans wondering who could replace the irreplaceable, giving the free agent another chance at Molineux promises high rewards for a relatively low risk.
At the age of 25, it appears that the local lad has earned his apprenticeship elsewhere and is ready to make his mark at Championship level.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
