New Wigan Athletic signing Dion Rankine has spoken of his joy after becoming the latest name to join Shaun Maloney’s side.
The former Exeter City winger has joined the Latics permanently this summer from Premier League giants Chelsea, signing a three-year deal at the DW Stadium.
He joins Liverpool full-back Calvin Ramsay and Brentford wide man Michael Olakigbe through the doors in Lancashire, as Wigan look to break into the League One playoffs following a 12th-place finish last season.
Rankine made 36 appearances at St James’ Park last season as the Grecians finished thirteenth in the third tier, just one point behind his new club. He recorded two assists and a solitary goal against Reading on New Year’s Day.
Speaking to the media upon his arrival, the 21-year-old was looking forward to making his mark. He said (Quotes via Wigan Today): ”
“I’m so excited to be here. It’s been in the works for a while, so I’m really excited to be here and get the deal done.
“I can’t wait to get out there in front of the fans now – it’s the right step for my career.
“I feel like I’ve got a really good opportunity to progress and develop, and I just want to play the best football that I can.”
The Barnet-born winger was at the Stamford Bridge side since he was 14 years old, originally being part of the Cambridge United youth setup. His loan move to Exeter was his first foray into senior football.
Wigan manager Shaun Maloney added: “I’m very pleased we have managed to sign Dion on a permanent deal. He has all the attributes that we are looking for in a wide forward, as well as the determination to enjoy a successful season.
Writer’s View
Wigan Athletic have moved to get some business done early in this window and have focused on the fringes of Premier League sides. Calvin Ramsay struggled for minutes on loan at both Preston North End and Bolton Wanderers so a move back to League One is best for him. Similarly, Michael Olakigbe couldn’t get a foothold at Peterborough United at the back end of last season. Shaun Maloney must have faith in these players to bring them in for next season.
Football journalist with The Real EFL since 2023. A 2024 Multimedia Journalism graduate from the University of Salford, Lewis specialises in Salford City FC and EFL coverage.
