Wigan look set to tempt Paul Cook back to the north-west - to the dismay of many Pompey fans.

Cook is said to be close to agreeing a deal to become the Latics' new boss amid some uncertainty over what and when he is going to be offered at Pompey, who are in the midst of a takeover.

The News is reporting that although Cook had been very keen to stay at Fratton, things changed on a 'day of developments' on Friday.

A report by News chief sports writer Neil Allen said: 'The Blues’ boss is poised to make the switch to League One rivals Wigan — just 20 days after winning the League Two title. However, Pompey are entitled to compensation for the remaining 12 months on the contract he signed in May 2015.

'Cook had been keen on a new Pompey deal and confided in friends he was not interested in the DW Stadium job. It is understood remaining at Fratton Park continues to be his preference. However, matters sped up following a meeting with chief executive Mark Catlin and he is now seemingly edging towards the Fratton Park exit.

'With Michael Eisner’s takeover in the process of being ratified, it has made it difficult to offer the contract Cook is eager to sign. The 50-year-old wants a pay rise in addition to an extended term in recognition of his Pompey achievements.'

Many Pompey fans will be dismayed to see Cook move on so soon after leading them to the League Two title with a storming end of season run.

There will be questions over why a new deal wasn't sorted before the takeover vote - and why it can't be sorted now... if that is what the sticking point is.

More is expected on this story before the weekend is out.

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