Ryan Nyambe is said to be closing in on a move to Wigan Athletic.

Nyambe is a free agent after turning down the offer of a new contract with Rovers.

Hopes of a positive conclusion were raised in April when his representatives returned to the negotiating table, but after a contract extension couldn't be reached, his exit was confirmed last month.

It is understood there had been interest from Bournemouth and teams in France in Nyambe, while it had been suggested that Middlesbrough were keen on a move for the 24-year-old.

However, it appears that Championship new boys Wigan are set to win the race for the Namibia international, according to reports.

Nyambe left Ewood Park after making 200 appearances for the club since his debut in 2015. He became a mainstay on the right-hand side of Rovers’ defence under Tony Mowbray, and become a hit with supporters during his time at the club.

He signed a new deal with the club in 2019, through to 2021, which included a 12-month option, which was triggered, meaning his deal expired this summer.

Rovers tried to plan ahead for the expected departure of Nyambe by bringing in Deyovaisio Zeefuik on loan from Hertha Berlin with the option to make that move permanent.

However, the Dutchman returned to his parent club after making only six appearances during an injury-hit spell with Rovers who opted against triggering the option.

James Brown, brought in from Drogheda United in January, Hayden Carter and Joe Rankin-Costello have all started on the right side of Rovers’ defence so far in pre-season, but it is expected to be a position the club target in the summer window.

Wigan, who beat Rovers in an FA Cup third round tie in January , were promoted back to the Championship after winning the League One title in 2021/22.

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