HUDDERSFIELD Giants are closing in on Wigan's Kevin Brown.

It is hoped a deal for the 21-year-old utility back can be completed in time for him to make his debut in Sunday's home engage Super League clash against Leeds Rhinos (3.00).

Securing Brown's signature - at this stage it is not known whether it would be a loan or permanent signing - would end a week of intense speculation.

That increased following Wigan's signing of Great Britain prop Stuart Fielden from Bradford Bulls.

With Fielden having immediately become Wigan's main wage earner, the Warriors have been desperate to offload players in a bid to get under the salary cap.

Bryn Hargreaves has moved to Leigh, while prop Jerry Seuseu announced his retirement with immediate effect.

But more players need to be released, with Brown's agent, Frank Endacott, admitting a move to the Galpharm is the top option.

And there's no doubt a player like Brown, who made 27 Wigan appearances last season and was in the initial Great Britain squad, is just what the Giants need right now.

He can provide cover at half-back for the injured Paul March and also slot in at centre where Huddersfield have been a little light.