Wigan Athletic are attempting a late transfer window reunion with Bradford City forward Stephen Humphrys. The move comes just hours before the summer deadline closes at 11pm on Tuesday.
Alan Nixon reported that the Latics have made an approach for the 28-year-old striker. Humphrys spent three years with Wigan between 2021 and 2024, scoring 18 goals in 98 appearances before moving to Barnsley. He joined Bradford City after the 2024/25 campaign and has since registered nine goals and six assists in 46 games. The pursuit comes as Wigan sit 24th in League One with zero points from three games, having scored just twice while conceding six.
Why is Stephen Humphrys a target?
Stephen Humphrys offers Wigan Athletic a known quantity and a different attacking profile. During his previous spell, he demonstrated an ability to contribute both goals and link-up play. His recent comments about his role at Bradford City highlight his desire to be a creative force. "As a 'nine' in this team, I will be able to get on the ball and dribble and create chances a lot more than most of last season when I was a target man really," Humphrys said.
His ambition aligns with a club needing a spark. Wigan are currently seven points behind league leaders Blackpool and are searching for solutions to turn their form around. Adding a player familiar with the club's environment could provide an immediate boost to the squad.
What is the transfer deadline situation?
The timing of this interest is critical. The summer transfer window shuts at 11pm, making this a genuine deadline-day move. Bradford City's team selection for their September 1 fixture against Cambridge United added fuel to the speculation, as Humphrys was not included in the matchday squad.
This suggests discussions may have been advanced enough for his current club to omit him. For Wigan, a successful deal would inject a fresh option into their attack ahead of a busy period, which includes a home game against third-placed Stockport County on September 5. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on the fixtures page.
Where would Humphrys fit in the current squad?
Humphrys has stated his personal goal is to be a central figure wherever he plays. "I want to be a source of more momentum and an important player in the team," he explained. At Wigan, he would be competing for a starting role in a side that has struggled for results early this season.
His versatility to play as a central striker or in a supporting role could offer manager Shaun Maloney different tactical options. The team's poor defensive record, detailed in the stats, underscores a need for improvement at both ends of the pitch. A reliable forward could help turn narrow losses into draws or wins.
What is Wigan Athletic's current league context?
Wigan's urgent need for points is clear from the early season table. With a record of zero wins, zero draws, and three losses, they prop up the League One standings. Their goal difference of minus four reflects the challenges they have faced in converting chances and keeping clean sheets.
The gap to the top is already significant, making every point from here critical. The next match at home to high-flying Stockport County represents a tough but immediate opportunity to start climbing. Supporters can follow the team's progress in the standings. Wigan Athletic host Stockport County at the DW Stadium on Saturday, September 5.
