Latics still chasing Ecuador ace

07 April 2009 16:30
Wigan are still believed to be tracking Ecuador striker Christian Benitez but now face competition for the Santos Laguna star's signature. Latics have a long-standing interest in the diminutive 22-year-old, who is now fully fit after breaking his leg late last year which scuppered a chance of a move to Europe during the January window. Wigan boss Steve Bruce led a JJB Stadium delegation to South America last weekend and they saw Benitez play the full 90 minutes in the World Cup qualifier against Paraguay. However, it is understood that Wigan were not the only English side with scouts posted at the match, with Portsmouth and Tottenham amongst those represented. Indeed a host of European clubs are also hot on Benitez's trail, including PSV Eindhoven, Villarreal and Atletico Madrid. "We have little doubt that many people follow Benitez, this obviously is something that gives us great pride, the possibility that Chucho [Benitez's nickname] could fulfil his dreams and score goal in Europe," said Santos president Alejandro Irarragorri, who confirmed the Mexican club will make the decision on the player. "We own 100 per cent of his federal rights. El Nacional of Ecuador - who sold us the player - remain part of the economic, but the decision is fully Santos'. "There were people here in Ecuador from the Netherlands, including the PSV, and England with Wigan, and also from France and Portugal. "If there was significant opportunity for the club and for him, which was beneficial in all respects and in sporting and economic, we would analyse it, but we are far from that."

Source: Eurosport