Liverpool and Everton have stepped up their interest in Wigan forward Joe Gelhardt, according to Teamtalk.
The online outlet claims that the 17-year-old will be forced to choose between the two Merseyside clubs in the future, with both being left impressed with his breakthrough at the Championship side and on the international scene.
Teamtalk report that a number of other clubs from the Premier League and in Europe are interested in Gelhardt, but it is Liverpool and Everton who are at the top of that pile.
Gelhardt has had to settle for four appearances off the bench in the Championship this season and has managed to score a single goal for the Latics.
OPINION
The way things currently stand in the Premier League, it would be a massive surprise if Gelhardt was to choose Everton over Liverpool. The Reds are untouchable at this moment, and all young breakout stars would surely jump at the chance to join them and have the opportunity to play for one of the best clubs in the country. His goal against Hull City was a highlight reel of what the 17-year-old can do. In a tight spot on the edge of the box, a quick turn lost a couple of defenders and created space for him to fire one in the corner, and prevented his side from losing. After selling Bobby Duncan, Liverpool would be smart to target another young English forward who is capable of coming in and hitting the ground running in the final third, and quickly attempt to prove he is capable of making an impact in the senior side at Anfield.
