Wigan complete double swoop

Wigan Athletic have raided two of the League One rivals to sign Sam Morsy and Ryan Colclough on permanent deals.

Chesterfield skipper Morsy, 24, makes the move to the DW Stadium on a two-and-a-half year deal, after the Latics and Spireites agreed upon an undisclosed fee.

The English-Egyptian made 117 appearances for Chesterfield and was instrumental in the club’s promotion two seasons ago as Champions of League Two. Under Paul Cook, Morsy would help establish the Spireites in League One and push for the play-offs alongside midfield partner Jimmy Ryan.

As part of the deal for Morsy, Port Vale are set to be receive 25% of the transfer fee for the player they released in 2013.

The Latics have also announced the signing of Crewe Alexandra forward Ryan Colclough for an undisclosed fee.

The 21-year-old Alex academy graduate joins Wigan on a three-and-a-half year deal, and had been expected to leave this transfer window following a trial with Wolves.

Colclough, Alex’s top goalscorer this season with 8 goals, ends his 14-year stay at Gresty Road to swap a relegation fight for a promotion challenge.

Latics manager Gary Caldwell revealed: “They are players we have been keeping a close eye on so to be able to get both over the line now is a major boost for us.

“We saw their talent first-hand in matches this season and they both were both standout players in matches against Chesterfield and Crewe.

“They are exactly the type of players we want at Wigan Athletic, young and hungry, but with plenty of experience at this level at the same time as having the ability to progress and play in a higher division. Hopefully of course, that will be with us.”