Wigan sign Ronnie Stam from Twente

(GSM) – Wigan Athletic have bolstered their defence by signing Dutch defender Ronnie Stam from Eredivisie champions Twente.

The 26-year-old, who is thought to have made the Latics cost around £2 million, follows the close-season captures of Antolin Alcaraz, Mauro Boselli and James McArthur.

Stam has been signed to replace Mario Melchiot, who has headed for pastures new in Qatar after the expiration of his contract at the DW Stadium.

The Latics are currently on tour in Austria and boss Roberto Martinez is set to meet Stam, recently called up by his country for next month’s friendly with Ukraine, on Saturday.

Stam is said to have been one of Martin Jol’s targets for Ajax, but the defender decided to head to England for what would seem likely to be a more lucrative three-year move.

“Ronnie has the past two seasons with FC Twente had the opportunity to develop further as a footballer,” Twente chairman Joop Munsterman told the club’s official website.

“He has taken the chance with both hands. Ronnie indicated his wish to move to a foreign league.”