The powerful front-man is currently on a season-long loan at JJB Stadium from El Zamalek and has proven to be an instant hit in English football.

Four goals in as many top flight matches have seen the 25-year-old draw admiring glances from a host of top clubs, raising fears that the African ace may be tempted away from the Latics.

However, Whelan is adamant Steve Bruce's side are in pole position to sign a player he believes is in the same mould as Newcastle legend Alan Shearer.

"We have got the right to buy him and are not worried about the situation," said the Latics owner.

loose ends

"There is a deal in place. The fans love him and as far as I'm concerned he is Alan Shearer the second.

"He is built like him. He has the same attributes and he knows where the goal is. When you watched Alan play he was always in the right place at the right time and this lad is the same.

"You just seem to know that he will score. He is powerful and he can smash them in. He is a very clever player.

"Whether that generates interest from big clubs I don't know. But it's a nice problem to have.

"We can do a deal in January. Steve Bruce is a shrewd manager. If he does a deal, all the fine points are sorted out. There are no loose ends."