Wigan Athletic manager Gary Caldwell has confirmed he and the club’s recruitment team are pursuing "two or three" new signings as the summer transfer window moves into its final month, but warned supporters that arrivals cannot be guaranteed in the coming days.
Work ongoing but timing remains uncertain
Speaking after the Latics’ 2-0 pre-season defeat at Grimsby Town, Caldwell said the club are attempting to strengthen the squad’s depth ahead of the new League One campaign. He underlined that transfer negotiations can feel very close one day and distant the next, reflecting the unpredictable nature of deals.
"We're working hard to bring people in. When that happens, some days you think it's miles off, some days you think it's very close, and it becomes miles off. It just is what it is."
The manager indicated he would check in with Joe Riley, Wigan’s head of recruitment, for updates but did not expect any signings "anytime soon" while stressing that could change before the window shuts on 1 September.
Balancing ambition with financial reality
Caldwell was candid about the need to improve the squad’s options to compete at the top end of League One, but reiterated recruitment must be managed within the club’s budget. He suggested departures may be necessary to facilitate incoming business.
When the squad was finalised at the end of last season, the club placed five players on the available-for-transfer list. All remain with the club for now, although one is out on loan.
- Players listed as available for transfer: Joseph Hungbo, Baba Adeeko, Jonny Smith, Ronan Darcy, Maleace Asamoah (on loan at Shamrock Rovers)
- Transfer window deadline: 1 September
- Immediate outlook: Club working on two or three targets, but no confirmed arrivals yet
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manager | Gary Caldwell |
| Head of recruitment | Joe Riley |
| Transfer window closes | 1 September |
Supporters have grown anxious at the limited activity so far this summer, and Caldwell acknowledged the squad lacks the depth necessary for a sustained promotion push. He said the work is ongoing and expressed hope deals could be completed in the coming weeks.
Local fans will be watching the weeks ahead closely. Any movement — whether departures that free up funds, loan arrangements, or outright buys — will be significant for the club’s prospects and could alter preparations as Wigan bid to mount a competitive challenge this season.
