Wigan Athletic midfielder Baba Adeeko joins Rochdale on one-year deal
Baba Adeeko has completed a move from Wigan Athletic to League Two newcomers Rochdale on a one-year contract. The 23-year-old midfielder, who was made available for transfer by manager Gary Caldwell at the end of last season, follows former teammate Jonny Smith to Spotland. Wigan Athletic finished 16th in League One last season with 56 points (14W-14D-18L), scoring 49 goals and conceding 58.
What happened?
Adeeko, who spent 12 years at Wigan Athletic, joins Rochdale after being deemed surplus to requirements by Caldwell. The midfielder revealed that Smith, who signed for Rochdale earlier this month, had positive things to say about the club. "I’m happy and delighted that it’s finally done," Adeeko said. "Me and Jonny sat next to each other in the changing rooms at Wigan, I talked to him before I came and he had nothing but good things to say about the club."
Why it matters for Wigan Athletic
Adeeko’s departure is part of Wigan Athletic’s squad reshuffle under Caldwell, who is also looking to move on Tobias Brenan before the transfer deadline. The Latics boss confirmed that Ronan Darcy remains in limbo, while trialist Tom McIntyre has left the club. Scott Hogan, however, continues to train with the group in the hope of securing a permanent deal.
What comes next?
Rochdale head coach Ian Watson believes Adeeko can help push the club in the right direction. "He’s played a lot of games in League One and has been an amazing player at Wigan," Watson said. "Out of possession he gives us that steel, he can handle the ball well and we hope he can progress to an even better footballer here." Meanwhile, Wigan Athletic will continue to assess their squad before the transfer window closes.
