Wigan cleared for Martinez talks

04 June 2009 12:32
Wigan have been given permission to speak to Roberto Martinez about their managerial vacancy after a compensation deal was agreed with Swansea. The Latics have turned to the Swans boss - who was also a reported target of Celtic - after previous incumbent Steve Bruce was confirmed as the new manager of Sunderland on Wednesday. Martinez spent six years as a player at the Lancashire club until 2001, and has seen his stock soar since guiding Swansea to the verge of the Coca-Cola Championship play-offs, 12 months after winning the League One title. Wigan owner Dave Whelan has made no secret of his admiration for the work done by Martinez at Liberty Stadium. A statement from the Latics read: "Wigan can announce that it has been given permission by Swansea to speak to their manager Roberto Martinez about the vacant manager's position. "A compensation deal has also been agreed and now Wigan chief executive Brenda Spencer will meet with Roberto as soon as possible to try to agree a deal to bring him to the club. "As chairman Dave Whelan stated yesterday (Wednesday), Roberto is our number-one choice and we are delighted to have permission to speak with him."

Source: Eurosport