- Will Aimson signs for Wigan Athletic
- The 30-year-old signs a two-year deal after signing from Exeter City for an undisclosed fee.
- Aimson: “It’s been a long time coming, and I’m buzzing to finally get it over the line. Looking around the place, and meeting all the boys and staff, I couldn’t be more excited.”
Wigan Athletic have signed defender Will Aimson from fellow Sky Bet League One side Exeter City for an undisclosed fee, subject to EFL and FA approval.
Aimson, 30, has put pen to paper on a two-year contract at the Brick Community Stadium, adding a wealth of EFL experience to Shaun Maloney’s young Latics squad.
The central defender started his career with Eastleigh, before joining Hull City following a successful trial period. He was with the Tigers at the same time as Maloney and first-team coach Tom Huddlestone, who were both in the latter stages of their playing days.
Aimson gained invaluable experience out on loan with Tamworth and Tranmere Rovers, before making a permanent move to Blackpool in January 2016 on the back of a successful three-month temporary stay.
He was a huge hit during his time at Bloomfield Road, helping Blackpool win promotion back to Sky Bet League One via the 2016/17 Sky Bet League Two Play-Offs. After making half a century of appearances for the Seasiders, Aimson then joinws Bury for a solitary season, enjoying more success as the Shakers won automatic promotion to the third tier.
Spells in League One with Plymouth Argyle and Bolton Wanderers preceded his move to Exeter City in January 2023, where he has since established himself as a fan favourite due to his committed performances at the heart of the defence. He was named team captain by former Latics defender Gary Caldwell at the start of the 2023/24 campaign, leading the Grecians by example as they finished comfortably in mid-table amid relegation fears.
Aimson made a total of 43 appearances last term, contributing to 13 clean sheets, including in the 1-0 victory against then-Premier League side Luton Town at St James Park. He also enjoyed his best-ever scoring season, netting five goals, which showcases his astute aerial ability in both boxes.
The 30-year-old becomes the club’s fourth signing of the summer transfer window following the arrivals of Michael Olakigbe, Calvin Ramsay and Dion Rankine, bolstering Latics’ defence ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Aimson said: “It’s been a long time coming, and I’m buzzing to finally get it over the line. Looking around the place, and meeting all the boys and staff, I couldn’t be more excited.
“There is a journey and a plan that is commencing here, and I want to be part of that.”
Manager Shaun Maloney added: “Will is a fantastic addition to our football club. He has great experience in League One and has been a standout performer at Exeter City.
“I have been a long-term admirer of Will, who I know will bring a lot of leadership to our young squad. I am looking forward to working with Will during pre-season and beyond.”
Sporting director Gregor Rioch said: “I am delighted we have been able to secure Will’s signature on a two-year deal. He really pushed to join us and be part of our project.
“He knows all about playing in League One and that experience will be vital for us. I am confident he will fit well into Shaun’s squad.”
Aimson will wear the squad number four.