Friday 30 January 2015 21:33, UK
Wigan have completed the signing of defender Jason Pearce from Sky Bet Championship rivals Leeds.
The 27-year-old, who has featured 23 times for Neil Redfearn's side this term, moves to the DW Stadium for an undisclosed fee.
Latics boss Malky Mackay was thrilled to complete his first permanent signing since taking the helm.
"I'm delighted that he has agreed to join us," Mackay told the club's official website.
"He's someone we've been tracking for a while, a really powerful centre-half, a leader and a warrior on the pitch, who has captained every club he has played at, and is exactly the type of player I want at the club.
"He's hungry to play and will hopefully quickly become a fan's favourite for the example he sets on the pitch. We've spoken to a lot of people about him and every single reference has come back positively, in that he is the right character we are seeking, someone who takes responsibility on the pitch and energises those around him."
Pearce came through the youth ranks at Portsmouth before moving to Bournemouth in 2007. After spending four years with the Cherries, he returned to Portsmouth before moving to Leeds in 2012.
Mackay added: "He's built up considerable experience now and knows this league inside out and we're delighted we've managed to get him.
"When we found out he might be available we immediately did all we could to get him because he's a player who can play a major role in taking the club forwards."
