WIGAN manager Paul Jewell believes transfer target Andreas Johansson could bolster the Latics push for promotion.

The 26-year-old midfielder, who plays for top Swedish side Djurgarden, has been watched by the Coca-Cola Championship outfit for some time and Jewell has now made an offer.

"I can confirm that I've made a bid for the player. He's a good player that we have had watched a number of times and been impressed by, and hopefully we can bring him in," he said.

"We're waiting for his club to get back to us following our offer and hopefully they will have some positive news. Ideally we will then be able to move things forward in the next few days.

"He's an international which shows the calibre of player he is and I believe that he would be an excellent signing for us should we be able to do a deal," he said.

Wigan have suffered a blip after three consecutive losses and are now hoping to close the gap on the two teams above them when they tackle Sheffield United.

United's Alan Quinn believes Saturday's game against Wigan will be one of their toughest encounters this season.

The Blades were at one stage 15 points behind Athletic but now have a chance to leapfrog them in the table having reduced the deficit to just two points.

"We've seen every team in the division and we are as good as anyone," said Quinn.

"Saturday's game will be tough but I fancy us to beat anyone here at Bramall Lane. The defending has been great of late and we are together as a unit," he enthused.

Paul Jewell's side go into the game two points behind second-placed Sunderland and five points behind leaders Ipswich Town.