Antonio Valencia has joined Wigan Athletic on a permanent basis for an undisclosed fee, subject to international clearance.Valencia, 21, has impressed at the JJB during a year-long loan with Wigan, and has now agreed a three-and-a-half-year contract with the English Premier League outfit.
The Wigan manager, Steve Bruce, was delighted to secure his services o a full-time basis.
He said: "He has pace, trickery, he is as strong as an ox and has a great work ethic."
Valencia becomes Wigan's fourth January signing, joining defenders Maynor Figueroa and Erik Edman, and striker Wilson Palacios as Bruce continues to strengthen his squad.
The Ecuadorian has featured in every match since Bruce took over as manager of the Latics in November, and the former Birmingham manager made it a priority to convert Valencia's status from loanee to employee by making him a permanent fixture at the JJB.
"Now that his future is sorted out, I want him to focus completely on his football and keep improving because I believe he has the potential to be a top, top player," said Bruce.
Valencia, who has made 35 appearances for Wigan since the start of last season, scoring once, cited both Bruce's influence and the support of the fans for his recent good form.
"You can see how the team is motivated now and I think he [Bruce] will be successful here in the seasons to come," said Valencia, who has earned 19 caps for his country.
"I also thank the Wigan fans who often sing my name, which makes me really happy to be here!"
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