Wigan complete Amaya signing

Wigan have signed centre-back Antonio Amaya on a three-year contract from Rayo Vallecano.

The deal, which will be completed once international clearance is secured, is one which Wigan manager Roberto Martinez is convinced will strengthen his team.

"Antonio is someone I have admired from a distance for a long time, and I am very happy we have convinced him to come to us," said Martinez.

"He is a really powerful lad, technically excellent, with good pace and he will fit in well to our system. I have no doubts about him adjusting to English football.

"Antonio is a quality player, with an excellent mix of experience and professionalism and he is enthusiastic about joining the club.

"He has been the captain of his club for three years, which shows you his leadership qualities. He will add great competition to our squad and I know that he is desperate to play for Wigan Athletic and is hungry to have success here."

Amaya, 26, added: "To play in England is a big dream for me, and I am honoured that Wigan have chosen me.

"I want to do everything I can to show Roberto Martinez and the people of Wigan they have made a good choice.

"I just need to be totally focused now on trying to earn a place in what is a very talented and competitive squad and try and make a good impression to my new team-mates, the manager and the supporters of my new club."

Amaya is not expected to be available for Saturday's season-opener at Aston Villa, new manager Martinez's first Barclays Premier League game.