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Sources: Wigan Athletic agree to sign Matt Smith straight from Arsenal
Wigan Athletic have agreed a deal to sign midfielder Matt Smith on a free transfer a day after his Arsenal contract expired, sources have told Football Insider.
Smith, 22 is a free agent after his deal at the Gunners came to an end on Friday (30th June).
Several clubs have shown an interest in the midfielder, but Wigan have won the race for his signature.
Smith joined Arsenal at the age of seven but left the club last month having never made an appearance for the Gunners.
The Harlow-born ace was on the bench for three Premier League fixtures in the 2022-23 campaign.
He was the captain of Arsenal’s Under-21 squad and made 24 appearances last term, notching one goal and four assists.
Smith notched 11 goals and 22 assists in 94 for games for the Gunners’ age group sides but couldn’t make an impression for Mikel Arteta’s senior side.
He joins League One Wigan having already made 75 appearances in England’s third tier.
The 22-year-old spent the 2021-22 season on loan with Doncaster, making 49 appearances across all competitions and notching two assists.
Smith has also had loan spells at Swindon Town and Charlton Athletic in League One.
The 5ft 9in ace can operate as a central or holding midfielder and can also play in more advanced roles if required.
Wigan returned to League One at the first time of asking after winning the division in the 2021-22 season.
The Latics have already completed deals for Callum McManaman, Liam Morrison and Jonny Smith so far this summer.
In other news, Arsenal agree third major deal with wonderkid.