Wigan Athletic lynchpin to stay put after turning down rival offers

The 27-year-old defender was a free agent this summer, and had fielded offers from rival clubs in the EFL as well as his native Scotland.

However, Latics boss Shaun Maloney had earmarked Kerr for a leadership role in the rebuild - and was delighted to get the deal over the line.

“We're delighted Jason has extended his stay here, as he is an important player for our football club," said Maloney.

"Jason showed an outstanding work ethic in rehabilitation when I arrived, and in the last six months, showed a high level of performance on the pitch.

"I look forward to Jason becoming a prominent leader at our club.”

Kerr joined Latics in the summer of 2021 from St Johnstone, whom he'd captained to a Scottish Cup and Scottish League Cup double.

He spent more than a year on the sidelines after sustaining a serious knee injury at Swansea in November 2022, but returned to the team at the beginning of the year where he quickly regained his form.

“I’m absolutely over the moon to extend my stay with Wigan Athletic," he said. "I’ve really enjoyed my football under the gaffer in the last couple of months, and I’m very excited about what the future holds.

“It’s a brilliant family club, and the togetherness I’ve experienced has been so special.

“The club really stuck by me throughout a tough period in my career, and now I want to show my gratitude and give back to everyone who has supported me.

“We’ve got a young group, and hopefully I can continue to support the lads both on and off the field. We’ve got a squad full of talented players, and we’re all determined to have another successful season of progression.”

Kerr's deal is the second major extension of the off-season, with goalkeeper Sam Tickle having already committed his future until 2028.

Sporting director Gregor Rioch added: "I’m delighted Jason has extended stay with Wigan Athletic.

"He showed incredible resolve while injured last season and produced some fantastic performances on his return to play last season.

"Jason has proven to be a leader both on and off the field and matches our ambitions as a club."

Latics have also remained in talks with three other players - Jordan Jones, Callum McManaman and Harry McHugh - since the retained list was published last month.

The club are extremely hopeful McManaman and McHugh - both products of the club's Academy - will agree new deals in the coming days to remain Wigan players.

Jones, however, is a more complicated situation.

The Northern Ireland international has kickstarted his career over the last 12 months under the watchful eye of Maloney.

Indeed, the player has credited the manager with giving him the belief and confidence to come in from the cold and prove he still has plenty to offer.

While Jones has spoken of his desire to stay on, Latics' reduced budget for next term means they are unable to offer the kind of terms other clubs would be able to table.

So while the door remains ajar – and Maloney is desperate to keep him - Latics are having to put alternative plans in motion.