McCormack has been in great form for Motherwell this season

The 21-year-old, who has bagged nine goals this season, has been in talks with Wigan manager Steve Bruce.

"Steve Bruce has been brilliant," said McCormack. "He told me he doesn't want me as a squad player but as someone who is playing in the first team.

"He assured me I will be given my chance. He also told me he believes I can use Wigan as a stepping stone."

McCormack started his senior career with Rangers and hit the headlines when he scored in a 1-1 Champions League draw away to Porto.

MY SPORT: DEBATE Is McCormack good enough for the English top flight?

But he was loaned out to Doncaster later that season and left Ibrox in 2006 after making just 14 appearances for the Glasgow club.

McCormack's first season with Motherwell was plagued by injury and he scored just three times in 15 appearances.

However, he has blossomed under new manager Mark McGhee this term, putting in a series of critically-acclaimed performances.

Middlesbrough approached the Scotland U21 international last month but Wigan appear to have won the race for his signature.