Arsenal agree first transfer deal of January window as young defender joins Wigan | OneFootball

League One side seal permanent move for 20-year-old who came through Hale End academy

Arsenal have sold young defender Josh Robinson to Wigan in a permanent deal.

The 20-year-old has joined the League One side on a three-and-a-half year contract.

Robinson came through the Hale End academy and has been on the Arsenal bench for four or their six Champions League league phase games this season.

“I am very excited to start my journey here,” Robinson said about his move to Wigan. “It’s a very big football club, and I am looking forward to seeing what the season holds.

Robinson has been on the Arsenal bench for four or their six Champions League league phase games this season

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

“They were interested in me and when you see a big club like Wigan, you cannot turn that opportunity down.

“I’ve been at Arsenal for a long time, and coming out of the academy into a first-team environment is a big step but I feel like I am ready to take it.

“It’s a big decision - but I thought why not take the leap of faith and hopefully everything will go well. I am very excited to get going.”

Wigan are 16th in League One and their manager Shaun Maloney said: “We have been monitoring Josh for quite some time, and I am thrilled that he is now a player for Wigan Athletic.

“Moving here was a significant decision for him, but Josh is both excited and motivated about our vision for the Club in the coming seasons.

“He is an extremely dedicated defender who excels in one-on-one situations and possesses strengths in attacking areas as well. I look forward to working with Josh to help him and the club achieve our goals.”