Wigan Athletic have completed the signing of Fulham winger Martial Godo on a season-long loan, the club’s official website confirmed.
The 20-year-old has been flying in the Premier League 2 for the Cottagers, scoring five times in three appearances this season as he became a star of Fulham’s U23 side.
However, despite impressive performances at youth level, the midfielder has only made one senior appearance for the West London outfit.
The Latics have announced the deal before Friday’s deadline, completing manager Shaun Maloney’s hopes of getting one more player through the door at the DW Stadium.
Godo is the 10th signing of the summer following the arrivals of Liam Morrison, Jonny Smith, Callum McManaman, Matt Smith, Sean Clare, Liam Shaw, James Balagizi, Kell Watts and Steven Sessegnon.
The wide player is said to have rapid pace, with the ability to operate on both flanks, which is the type of profile that Maloney has been looking to add to the squad.
Attentions will now turn to keeping key players at the club, however, the 40-year-old boss isn’t expecting any outgoings in final few hours.
What’s been said?
“Hopefully, I hope we can maybe see one more player coming in, to help the squad,” said Maloney, ahead of deadline day.
“I really like the squad we’ve got, but one more – with certain attributes, in one area – would be great.
“And I don’t expect anyone to be leaving this late.”
Speaking to Latics TV, Godo said: “I’m very overwhelmed and excited to get started.
“It’s something that happened last minute, but I’m just ready to get going.
“I’m prepared to work hard and help the team as much as I can.
“Everything has happened so quickly but it’s about learning, adapting and growing as a man.”
Writer’s View
Wigan and League One represents a significant step up for the 20-year-old winger, who joined Fulham from his previous club Margate in March 2022 following a successful trial.
Whilst Maloney will be delighted to get this deal over the line, it is probably more crucial that they don’t see any more players head through the exit door, following a huge exodus that has seen captain Tendayi Darikwa, vice-captain Max Power, and experienced campaigners Jamie Jones, James McClean and Jack Whatmough all leave the club.
