Manchester United youngster Reece James has signed for Wigan Athletic for a fee of £1m.
Defender James – who played a sole first team game, against MK Dons in last year’s horror League Cup tie – had two loan spells away from the club last season at Rotherham United and Huddersfield Town. He had enjoyed a successful pre-season tour with the senior team, scoring twice against LA Galaxy to prompt suggestions he may be used in a left wing back position as United were struggling with injuries.
However, after getting the opportunity against MK Dons, James like many others saw his Old Trafford career hit a standstill from which it not recover.
Reece is the brother of Matty James, a fellow product of United’s academy who moved to Leicester City three years ago.
James has signed a three year deal.
“Reece is a young player with a bright future,” Wigan manager Gary Caldwell told the club’s official website.
“He has been schooled by one of the best academies around and has impressed both at Under-21 level and whilst on loan.
“He is another who will strengthen competition on that left side, and has played as a full-back, or in a wing-back role. Once again, there were clubs after him so we’re delighted to add him to the squad.”