WIGAN Athletic are close to completing the signing of Swedish international midfielder Andreas Johannson.

Latics manager Paul Jewell confirmed an offer has been accepted by Johannson's club Djuargardens.

Latics are hoping to finalise the deal ahead of Saturday's FA Cup clash with Derby at Pride Park.

Jewell, who has has given his players two days off to recover from a hectic festive schedule, said: "Three successive defeats disappointed me, but I must give credit to the lads for bouncing back with two impressive wins against Sheffield United and Wolves.

"These were big games and they showed their character and now we're back in the thick of the promotion race."

Meanwhile, M.E.N. Sport can reveal Scottish midfielder Lee McCulloch is close to agreeing a new extended deal with Wigan. Tweet