Arsenal agree first transfer deal of January window as young defender joins Wigan

Arsenal have completed the transfer of 20-year-old defender Josh Robinson to League One side Wigan Athletic. The young talent has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the club.

Robinson, who came through Arsenal’s Hale End academy, has been a part of the first-team setup this season, making the bench for four of the Gunners’ six Champions League league phase matches.

Expressing his enthusiasm about the move, Robinson said, “I am very excited to start my journey here. It’s a very big football club, and I am looking forward to seeing what the season holds. They were interested in me, and when you see a big club like Wigan, you cannot turn that opportunity down.”

Reflecting on his time at Arsenal and the transition ahead, Robinson added, “I’ve been at Arsenal for a long time, and coming out of the academy into a first-team environment is a big step, but I feel like I am ready to take it. It’s a big decision, but I thought why not take the leap of faith, and hopefully, everything will go well. I am very excited to get going.”

Wigan, currently 16th in League One, are optimistic about Robinson’s contribution to their squad. Manager Shaun Maloney spoke highly of the young defender, saying, “We have been monitoring Josh for quite some time, and I am thrilled that he is now a player for Wigan Athletic.

“Moving here was a significant decision for him, but Josh is both excited and motivated about our vision for the club in the coming seasons. He is an extremely dedicated defender who excels in one-on-one situations and possesses strengths in attacking areas as well. I look forward to working with Josh to help him and the club achieve our goals.”