Latics manager Chris Hutchings is delighted to have finally netted his man and is looking forward to working with new Dutch defender Mario Melchiot.
"I have been a long-time admirer," said Hutchings. "We did approach Rennes last January to enquire about his availability, but he's a player who I believe can achieve a lot here."
Pictured right, when Mario met the manager
Hutchings revealed that the deal with Melchiot was signed last Tuesday but as a courtesy to the player, it has only been announced today (Friday).
Hutchings said: "It speaks volumes about his character that he wanted to go back to France and talk face to face with the clubs who have also been chasing him.
"Contrary to some of the stories that have been flying around, the deal was completed on Tuesday when we met Mario and his advisers at the JJB, he had a medical and we finished everything on the day."
Talking about what he will bring to the team, Hutchings said:
"I think he brings real authority to the back four, he's played at the very highest level for club and country and that sort of experience can really bring a lot to the table for us.
"I want to build a team of young, hungry players, but you need to balance that with the experience that someone like Mario can offer those young players.
"What I like about him is that he knows the demands of the Premiership. He's played in a team chasing the title and winning the FA Cup, but after his time at Birmingham, he's also battle-hardened and understands the physical demands of this league."
Shake on it - Melchiot is impressed with Chris Hutchings
"It's another big signing for us, one that will not only help us as a club and a team, but sends out all the right messages that we mean business and can attract the right sort of players here.
"Now the search must go on. I've set my mind on bringing in better players than we already have here, because I want to move the club up to the next level. The three who have come in fit the bill but now we must keep up the search and keep chasing other targets."
