Wigan land Spanish defender Amaya

Premier League club Wigan signed Spanish defender Antonio Amaya from Rayo Vallecano on a three-year contract on Friday.

Amaya is not expected to be available for Saturday’s season-opener at Aston Villa as the deal cannot be completed until international clearance is secured.

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez said: “Antonio is someone I have admired from a distance for a long time, and I am very happy we have convinced him to come to us.

“He is a really powerful lad, technically excellent, with good pace and he will fit in well to our system. I have no doubts about him adjusting to English football.

“He has been the captain of his club for three years, which shows you his leadership qualities.”

Amaya, 26, added: “To play in England is a big dream for me. I want to do everything I can to show Roberto Martinez and the people of Wigan they have made a good choice.”