DAN BURN is closing in on a return to action with Wigan as he prepares for his switch to Albion in the New Year.

They bought the 6ft 7in central defender in August for around £3 million.

Burn was immediately loaned back to Wigan until January to recover from a broken foot bone and play games in the Championship before challenging Lewis Dunk, Shane Duffy and Leon Balogun for a place in Albion’s Premier League line-up.

Leam Richardson, Wigan’s assistant manager, said: “Dan Burn is desperate to get back, he’s worked tirelessly with the physios since he got the injury. He was back out on the grass last week.

“Dan did so well last season and that prompted the move he’s got, but he’s certainly determined to get back in amongst our lads and help the club.”

Duffy makes the 200th league start of his career against West Ham at the Amex on Friday night.