Wigan Athletic have unveiled Oliver Cooper as their latest summer signing to link up with Ryan Lowe’s Latics side. The Swansea City attacking-midfielder will join on a season-long loan.
Cooper has featured 117 times for the Swans, scoring nine goals either side of a Newport County loan deal in 2021/22. The Latics have signed the Wales international, who has featured five times for the national team. The 25-year-old’s best season was in 2022/23, where Cooper scored six goals in 44 appearances across all competitions.
As Wigan’s latest signing, Cooper had this to say upon his announcement as the Latics’ creative asset:
“I’m really happy to be here and get started.“I’ve had several chats with the Gaffer already, and everything he’s said – and the fact he’s wanted me a long time – is really nice and encouraging. It shows he has confidence and belief in me, and I need to repay him now.“I’ve been keeping an eye on Latics since the start of the season – they’re doing well. Being here and being amongst some of the players, I can already feel that there is a really good buzz around the place, and hopefully I can contribute to that.”
Writer’s View
At League One level, Cooper will provide immense attacking threat in a Lowe side that looks to be attacking freely with the likes of Fraser Murray, Joseph Hungbo, Dara Costelloe and Christian Saydee looking like promising assets this season.
Having gained international experience with Wales and numerous Championship seasons with the Swans, Cooper is now set for a new challenge as one of the better creative players in League One. This will likely spark a career turnaround for the 25-year-old as he has recently dropped down the pecking order.
A loan deal is great for Cooper – it will allow him to get back on track in the EFL and hand Swansea another chance to play him next season if the deal goes well. On the flip side, Wigan could capitalise on a good campaign with a view to purchase him permanently.
