Espanyol teenager Roman Golobart claims to be close to a move to Premier League side Wigan.
The 17-year-old was thought to be on the verge of joining the Latics last summer before the deal failed to materialise.
But centre-back Golobart now says that he is set to move to the DW Stadium as a result of manager Roberto Martinez's persistence.
He told Spanish media: "The sporting challenge is key for me and is more important than the money.
"I want to improve my level and I see less opportunities at Espanyol so I have accepted a move.
"Roberto Martinez has insisted on my arrival and this has been key."
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