Latics set for McArthur swoop

22 July 2010 09:02

Wigan are expected to complete the signing of Hamilton midfielder James McArthur on Thursday.

The clubs agreed a fee for the 22-year-old on Wednesday and the deal will go through if the player completes a medical. The move will reunite McArthur with fellow midfielder James McCarthy, who made the same switch from Lanarkshire to the DW Stadium last season.

McArthur has been linked with Wigan for some time and another Scot, defender Gary Caldwell, has welcomed his imminent arrival. Caldwell, who left Celtic for the Latics in January, said: "For years he has been tipped to come down here but I think he was better staying at Hamilton and getting games and experience."

The former Celtic defender added: "He is probably ready to come now and have this challenge.

"Obviously James McCarthy did so well last year - hopefully James McArthur can follow in his footsteps and we don't get too confused with their names!

As McArthur arrives at Wigan, defender Titus Bramble is poised to leave.

The Latics have accepted an offer believed to be around £750,000 - rising to £1million - for the former Newcastle player, who was thought to be on Wearside discussing personal terms on Thursday.

Caldwell admits he would be sad to see the 29-year-old leave after they linked up together last season.

"He is one of the best defenders in the league," said Scotland international Caldwell.

"I had a good relationship with him last year and it would be a blow."

Source: PA