Wigan chairman Dave Whelan has told manager Steve Bruce he will have financial backing in the transfer window this summer.The Latics boosted their survival hopes with a 1-1 draw against Chelsea on Monday to move six points clear of the relegation zone.

Wigan have made good progress since Bruce took charge of the club in November but Whelan is now looking for further improvement next season.

He believes it is a realistic target to aim for mid-table but accepts the squad will need to be strengthened.

"It's always viable. I will look after him. Steve knows what he wants and what he needs to get in," Whelan told the Wigan Observer.

"I want us to get into the middle of the league. We've got a long way to go."

It is understood that two midfielders and a striker will be targeted and that Whelan is ready to look at players valued up to £7million.

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