Wigan have completed the signing of Honduras midfielder Hendry Thomas on a three-year deal, subject to international clearance.
The 24-year-old was set to join Wigan from Deportivo Olimpia last summer but the move was turned down as he did not meet the work permit criteria.
However, the situation has now improved and Thomas was able to agree terms after passing a medical.
"He is another quality addition," said new Wigan manager Roberto Martinez.
Former manager Steve Bruce identified Thomas last year but even though he left for Sunderland this summer, Wigan decided to make a second attempt to sign the player.
Thomas is the third Honduras international to play for Wigan, with left-back Maynor Figueroa and Wilson Palacios becoming key members of the team.
"It is a dream come true for me to come to England"
A number of clubs were alerted to Thomas following his aborted move to Wigan and Martinez expressed his delight with the signing.
"Everyone knows how well Wilson and Maynor have done in the Premier League and it is no wonder there was lots of interest in Hendry, who comes from the same club as those two and has impressed," the former Swansea boss told Wigan's website.
"What happened last season here was a shame but the player now has the chance to prove himself over here.
"He is a powerful figure in midfield, who can sit in front of the back four and destroy attacks, or can also come forward and score.
"He is a player the club has worked really hard to secure these past months, with representatives from here travelling over to Honduras to meet with him and broker the deal - and all that hard work has paid off now."
606: DEBATEThomas was denied a move to Wigan because he had not played enough games for his country and he said: "What happened last year was very disappointing for me personally.
"But I have worked hard all season to stay fit and qualify for the work permit rules and it is a dream come true for me to come to England. I want to prove myself in the Premier League.
"I have talked a lot with Maynor and Wilson about the club and I can't wait to start now.
Thomas will provide competition in central midfield which is much needed after the departure of Palacios to Tottenham in January.
"I am a typical defensive midfielder and I like to win not only in games but also in training," said Thomas.
"I want to thank Roberto Martinez and Wigan for giving me the chance to come here and I'm determined to show them they have not made a mistake.
"Having a Spanish-speaking manager will help me but I am determined to learn the language quickly because Roberto has told me already the team talks will be in English."
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