Wigan Athletic have signed Ángelo Henríquez on loan from Manchester United for the rest of the season.
The 18-year-old becomes the second signing of the January transfer window after Roger Espinoza’s imminent arrival as the Latics strengthen their squad ahead of another potential relegation battle.
Chilean Henríquez, who signed for United in the summer but is yet to make a first-team appearance, could make his debut Wigan against Bournemouth in the FA Cup this Saturday. He will wear the number 11 shirt.
Wigan coach Roberto Martínez said:
“We’re really excited about Angelo because he is a very young man with a huge potential; he’s a goal-scorer with clever movement inside the box and has had a very successful time with his former club Universidad.
“We hope to have a good partnership in terms of allowing Angelo to develop as a footballer and learn of the demands of the English game, because I feel he can bring us something different in the forward line.
Henríquez is a Chilean international
“I’m sure the fans will give him a great welcome on Saturday and it will provide him with the perfect opportunity to begin his experiences on the pitch in English football which is very exciting.”
Henríquez added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I am really excited after the manager has given this chance for me to prove myself. Now I need to work to try and earn my place in the team.”
Henríquez joined United from Chilean side Universidad de Chile and has featured in a number of reserve games.
United midfielder Tom Cleverley enjoyed a season-long loan with Wigan in the 2010-11 campaign prior to his breakthrough in the United first-team the following season.