Wigan Athletic complete beat-the-deadline swoop for League Two forward

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Wigan Athletic completed a beat-the-transfer-deadline deal for Fleetwood Town forward Maleace Asamoah.

It had been a relatively quiet ending to the window for Latics, who added Dale Taylor on loan from Nottingham Forest and brought 'home' Academy product Jensen Weir from Brighton on a permanent basis in the final week of trading.

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But with just hours until the cut-off point, boss Shaun Maloney made it a hat-trick in the form of Asamoah.

Latics are hoping to complete a deal for Fleetwood forward Maleace AsamoahLatics are hoping to complete a deal for Fleetwood forward Maleace Asamoah
Latics are hoping to complete a deal for Fleetwood forward Maleace Asamoah

Latics were linked with the 21-year-old - who came through the ranks at Reading, before his career took him to picturesque outposts such as Greek sides Kalamata and Olympiacos Volos, as well as English non-league outfits Cheshunt and New Salamis - in the middle of July.

But the chase went cold, and Latics moved on to other targets.

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However, after starting the season with only two goals from their opening four matches - a penalty and an own goal - Maloney wanted as much firepower in his squad as possible.

And Asamoah's form in the second half of last term - six goals in 14 starts during a loan spell in Ireland with Waterford - showed what he's capable of.

“I was excited when I got the call because I know Wigan is a prestigious club with a lot of history,” said Maleace. “I feel like it’s a great fit for me.

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“With the gaffer being a winger himself, it was a no-brainer to come, because I feel like I’ll progress really well here.

“I am a really exciting player, and I like to get the crowd off their feet and entertain them. Every single week, I play for the badge. I’ll do everything for my team-mates and the three points.”

Manager Maloney added: "We're very pleased that Maleace has joined the football club. He is a player that I have watched for a long period of time.

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"I feel like he has big potential and will become an important player for our club over the coming seasons.

"Maleace is very quick and talented in one-versus-one situations, he can play off either flank and as a striker. I look forward to welcoming him into our team.”

Sporting Director Gregor Rioch added: "The arrival of Maleace is really exciting for the football club. He is a young player with lots of potential, and we believe he will become a key player for us.

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“He can play a number of different positions across the frontline and is the type of forward who will get the supporters off their feet. I am looking forward to seeing how he develops in a Wigan Athletic shirt."

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