Latics make Granqvist deal permanent

Wigan Athletic have completed the signing of Helsingborg defender Andreas Granqvist.

The Premier League club have confirmed that the 22-year-old Swedish international - who was on loan at the club last season - has signed a two-year contract.

Latics manager Chris Hutchings told his club's official website: 'There was a lot of interest in Andreas, which is why I wanted to get this done quickly.

'Andreas has got bags of potential and I think he has the ability to make a real impact in the Premier League.'

Club officials, including chief executive Brenda Spencer, travelled to Copenhagen this morning to tie up the deal with Granqvist and his representatives.

The 6ft 3in centre-half was on loan at Latics from January and made one appearance, in the FA Cup third round at Portsmouth.

Hutchings continued: 'He's good technically, he's strong and powerful and has pace, now it's up to us to make sure we harness that potential and turn him into a Premier League regular.'

Granqvist becomes the club's fourth summer signing, quickly following the captures of Titus Bramble, Antoine Sibierski and Mario Melchiot.

The Swede said: 'To play in England has always been a dream for me, and I am thrilled to have sorted out the move.

'I really like the atmosphere at the club and I feel I learned a lot from being involved last season.

'I feel I can now push and challenge for a regular first team place next season. I get on really well with the manager and I am very optimistic about the future now.

'I can't wait to get back and start challenging for my place.'