Gilbey in - more to follow!

There will be at least one new face as the Wigan Athletic squad report back for pre-season training today, after Gary Caldwell last night swooped for his second summer signing.
Alex GilbeyAlex Gilbey
Alex Gilbey

A mere 46 days after picking up the League One title at the DW Stadium, the Latics players will be getting their boots back on to kick-off their preparations for the 2016/17 campaign.

And meeting his new colleagues for the first time will be Alex Gilbey, who has completed his move from Colchester United on a three-year deal.

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The 21-year-old impressed against Latics last season, scoring a blinding goal in the 3-3 draw down at the Weston Homes Community Stadium in March, when the visitors required a last-gasp goal from Will Grigg to escape with a point.

Gilbey’s effort wasn’t quite enough to see the U’s avoid relegation from League One, but Latics chief Caldwell moved quickly to ensure he moved up a division rather than down for an undisclosed fee.

“Alex was one of the outstanding young talents in League One last season,” Caldwell said.

“And we believe the next stage of his career can be fulfilled here.

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“He scored an excellent goal against us at Colchester last season, and he was a stand-out player on the day, making him an excellent addition.

“He’s exactly the sort of player and person who suits this club, and we’re delighted to add him to the group.”

Gilbey scored five goals in 42 appearances for Colchester last term, during which he captained the side and also picked up the Player of the Year award.

He becomes the second signing of the summer for Latics, after defender Stephen Warnock completed a permanent transfer from Championship outfit Derby following a successful loan spell at the DW last season.

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Meanwhile, Latics continue to be strongly linked with former midfielder Jordi Gomez.

However, the Spaniard is reported to be in the process of negotiating a pay-off from the Black Cats for the final 12 months of his contract, hence the delay.

Latics are also believed to be keeping tabs on Barnsley captain Conor Hourihane, with a fee of £500,000 being bandied about in the media.

And Billinge-born midfielder Leon Osman, who turned 35 last month, is also understood to be a live target for his home-town club following his release by Everton this summer.