Melchiot joins Wigan on a free

Friday, June 15, 2007

Mario Melchiot has become Wigan's third summer signing after joining on a free transfer from Rennes.

The former Chelsea and Birmingham defender has passed a medical and agreed personal terms at the JJB Stadium.

Wigan manager Chris Hutchings said: "Mario is someone we've been keen on for some time. He's an experienced and versatile player and he's another real quality addition to the squad."

Melchiot, capped by Holland 15 times, already has 230 Premier League appearances to his name and won the FA Cup in 2000 with Chelsea.

The Dutch defender was an ever-present for Rennes last season, helping them to fourth in the table and a Uefa Cup finish.

He joins fellow new arrivals Titus Bramble and Antoine Sibierski, who both signed from Newcastle, at the club.

European sides including Lyon, Paris St Germain, Marseille, Roma, Lazio and Olympiakos were all believed to be tracking the 30-year-old.

© 2007 ireland.com