And one of the outsiders (according to William Hill betting) is former Newcastle United boss Kevin Keegan at 60/1. Roberto Martinez left the club for Everton and Whelan revealed on Saturday that around 50 people have applied for the job of restoring the FA Cup winners to the Barclays Premier League.
Whelan told Sky Sports News: "I've got about 10 or 12 to interview over the next few days and hope to make an announcement by next weekend.
"There were more than 50 applications. I can't interview all of them - but I thank them for applying."
Names linked with the vacancy include Brighton's Gus Poyet, Mike Phelan and Rene Meulensteen - both assistants to Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United - MK Dons' Karl Robinson and former Bolton and Burnley boss Owen Coyle.
However, Whelan would not be drawn on names, adding: "I'm talking to a lot of great managers, hopefully I can choose the right one - and that's not easy.
"They all need that bit of luck to succeed. We've only one ambition and that's to get back in the Premier League."
Whelan revealed the new manager can expect to be financially rewarded if he is successful in leading Wigan back to the top flight.
Asked what he would receive for masterminding a Premier League return for Wigan, the chairman told Sky Sports News: "Quite a healthy bonus...a few millions pounds. I believe in the bonus system.
"We think of ourselves as a Premier League club - we had eight years there.
"I wouldn't like to say we'll sell anybody. I'll appoint a manager and give him my full backing. I will listen to what he wants and says and will back him 100 per cent.
"Anyone who wants our players has to offer enough money to tempt us. Roberto is a friend for life but Wigan is a business and he's got to pay the right money to get the right player.
"Not one bid has been received. The season is so long at the end players and their families go away, everyone has to rest for at least four weeks.
"We have to have a budget. We've got to play 58 games this season. We are going to get injuries - that's what brought us out of the Premier League."
Source: Newcastle United Mad
Source: FOOTYMAD
