- Jensen Weir returns to Wigan Athletic.
- The former Latics Academy graduate has signed a two-year deal.
- Weir: “I am really happy to be here again, and it is nice to be back.”
Midfielder Jensen Weir has returned to Wigan Athletic following his transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee, subject to Premier League, FA and EFL approval.
The former Heatable Academy graduate has signed a two-year contract, marking an exciting chapter in his football career as he rejoins Latics after four seasons with the Premier League Club.
Weir, (22), initially made history as Latics’ youngest-ever first-team player, making his debut at just 15 years and 280 days back in November 2017 against Accrington Stanley.
The young midfielder initially joined the club at eight years old and went on to make a total of four appearances in the first team before captaining his country at England youth level.
He left Wigan Athletic in July 2020 when he was sold as part of the administrators’ plan to secure the club’s survival. Alongside the sales of fellow academy talents Joe Gelhardt and Alfie Devine, Weir’s departure brought in crucial funds that allowed the club to pay wages and avoid the risk of senior players leaving on free transfers, ultimately playing a significant role in salvaging Latics’ long-term future.
During his time with Brighton, Weir gained valuable experience, including spending loan spells at Cambridge United, Morecambe, Blackpool and most recently Port Vale where he continued to develop his game and made over 100 EFL appearances.
However, the lure of returning to the club where it all began proved too strong and Weir is now ready to pick up where he left off and further his career with Latucs.
Weir said: “I am really happy to be here again, and it is nice to be back. For me to be a part of a project is something I have wanted for a few years, and I am excited to get out and play in front of the fans again.
“I will relish it and hopefully the fans enjoy what they see!”
Manager Shaun Maloney explained: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Jensen back to Wigan Athletic. He’s a player of immense talent and potential, and it’s fantastic to have him return home.
“Jensen has pushed extremely hard to make this move happen and we are looking forward to working with him and helping him fulfil his talent alongside the team’s ambitions.”
Wigan Athletic sporting director Gregor Rioch, who worked with Jensen throughout his academy days, added: “Jensen’s return home is a significant moment for us as a club and I would like to thank Brighton for helping facilitate the move.
“Jensen, along with fellow academy graduates Joe Gelhardt and Alfie Devine ultimately saved this football club from going under during one of our most difficult times.
“Jenson has fantastic ability and we’re proud that he’s chosen to continue his career with us. He has picked up vital experience during his time at Brighton, as well as during various loan spells across the EFL and we believe he’ll be a key player for us in the coming seasons.”