Wigan Athletic are set to sign Blackburn defender on a season-long loan after the two clubs came to a late agreement on deadline day.

The Scotsman has been a key figure under Tony Mowbray at Ewood Park since making the move from Celtic back in 2016 and his incredible 14 goals a year later was crucial in helping Rovers win promotion back to the Championship.

His undoubted ability from set-plays was evident again last season as he chipped in with ten goals from 29 games for the Lancashire side.

Despite that, Blackburn are ready to sanction a move for the 33-year-old, with reporter Alan Nixon revealing on Twitter that a move to Paul Cook's side is imminent.

"Wigan. Signing Charlie Mulgrew from Blackburn. Season long deal. Class addition."

This move is particularly surprising as Mulgrew played the full 90 minutes, and captained the side, as fell to a frustrating opening day defeat at home to Charlton.

If the move does go through, the left-footer could make his debut against Preston at Deepdale this weekend for the Latics.

The Verdict

Not many would have seen this coming and it is a real shock as Mulgrew has been a leader for Blackburn in the past few years and still has a lot to offer on the pitch.

He is a capable defender and his quality on the ball, both from set-plays and in building from the back, is clear to see.

But, Mowbray is clearly happy to sanction this sale as he feels others will be able to step up in his absence.

From Wigan's perspective, they needed defensive reinforcements and the versatile Mulgrew could prove to be a shrewd signing over the course of the season.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.