Wigan set to sign Spanish youngster

Wigan are close to agreeing a deal with Atletico Madrid to sign goalkeeper Joel on loan, according to reports from the Daily Mail.

The Spanish stopper will, likely, act as back-up to Ali Al Habsi, who has been linked with Premier League rivals Liverpool in recent months.

Despite being way down the pecking order at the Vicente Calderon, Joel is thought of as a top talent by the club, who are keen for him to gain vital experience.

Their current first-choice goalkeeper is Thibaut Courtois, who is on loan to the club from Chelsea.

Atletico are thought to been to secure a permanent deal for the Belgian stopper, but the Blues are said to see him as the long-term successor to Petr Cech.

Joel is thought to be in line to take the number one spot once his temporary deal expires at the club should Courtois leave.

He spent last season on loan with La Liga side Rayo Vallecano, playing alongside Swansea star Michu, making a handful of first-team appearances.

The 22-year-old is an imposing figure between the sticks, measuring in at 6ft. 5”, but is also considered to be a fine shot-stopper.