Deadline Day Deal: Super Eagles Defender Joins Wigan Athletic

Super Eagles centre-back Leon Balogun has joined the Latics on a temporary deal as he thirsts to enjoy more game time.

After enduring a difficult time at the Falmer Stadium, Nigeria international Balogun has moved to Wigan Athletic from Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion until the end of the season. The Championship side announced the transfer on their official website late on transfer deadline day.

The 31-year-old had struggled for game time since joining Brighton and Hove Albion in 2018 from German Bundesliga club Mainz 05. The defender, who was a member of the Super Eagles squad that finished in third place at the 2019 AFCON has featured in just 12 games for the Seagulls.

Balogun’s quest to enjoy more action and reignite his career would be delayed momentarily, though, as he is unavailable for the Latics’ clash at Leeds United on Saturday.

With over 200 career league appearances and 32 international caps to his name, Balogun brings useful experience to a Wigan side struggling at the wrong end of the Championship table.

Balogun previously starred in the Bundesliga for Hannover 96, Werder Bremen, Fortuna Dusseldorf and Mainz 05.