The Latics were previously keen to sign the North West Counties League striker on a loan basis but FA regulations stipulate that loan arrangements are prohibited between the respective divisions involved in this particular transfer.
It had been thought that the move had collapsed, at least until the summer, but extensive talks between Latics chief executive Alan Hardy and Nantwich chairman Clive Jackson have seen the transfer resurrected.
Wilkinson will join the Second Division strugglers until the end of the current campaign, with the league side retaining an option on the player's services for next season.
Nantwich, in return for relinquishing Wilkinson, will play Oldham in a pre-season friendly and receive a nominal fee if Wilkinson is offered an extended contract and when the player makes 15 first team appearances.
The non-league club will also receive 20 percent of any fee if Wilkinson is sold on.
