Latics win Melchiot chase
Mario Melchiot endured a torrid end to his Birmingham career
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Friday, 15, Jun 2007 10:24
Wigan have beaten off a host of top continental clubs to win the signature of former Chelsea full-back Mario Melchiot.
The Dutchman becomes manager Chris Hutchings' third capture of the close season after Newcastle duo Titus Bramble and Antoine Sibierski also arrived on free transfers.
"Mario is someone we've been keen on for some time," Hutchings told Wigan's official website.
"He's an experienced and versatile player and he's another real quality addition to the squad."
The Latics moved to sign Melchiot after he opted not to renew his contract at French outfit Rennes, who he helped finish fourth and secure Uefa Cup football.
Wigan claim that the lure of a return to the Premiership persuaded the 32-year-old to knock back the advances of French giants Marseilles, Paris St Germain and Lyon, as well as Italian rivals Roma and Lazio.
Melchiot, who has won 15 caps for Holland during his career, made 230 appearances for Chelsea and Birmingham during his five-year spell in England's top flight.
He was let go by the Midlands club last summer as his poor form and apparent complete loss of confidence contributed to Birmingham's relegation to the Championship.
The St Andrews faithful will get their chance to be reacquainted with Melchiot when Wigan visit Birmingham on October 27th, after the 2007/08 Premiership season fixtures were released yesterday.