Aghahowa deal accepted

The international striker has 32 caps for Nigeria, scoring 14 goals. Famous for his goal celebration, Aghahowa would be a phoenominal addition to the side should his work permit come through.

Latics boss Paul Jewell told the club's official website: "I hope we can sort out the paperwork. He's a striker of real pedigree, who will add huge competition to the attacking positions.

"I've watched him personally on two occasions, we've really done our homework on this one. He's quick, strong, aggressive, good with both feet and I'm sure would adapt to the rigours of the Premiership.

"Everything else has been agreed - the fee with Shakhtar Donetsk, the player's terms - so now it's down to getting the work permit.

"I'm quite excited about him coming here. If we sign him he'll give us more competition up front. He has a good pedigree and is someone we've been watching for quite a while.

"I tried to buy him a couple of years ago, but Shakhtar Donetsk are a very wealthy club and they wouldn't sell him then. Even though his contract runs out in October, we've still had to pay quite a hefty price for him now."

It was thought that Bouba Diop had decided to stay with Fulham, but Paul Jewell is confident the midfielder will change his mind. He said: "We spoke to him on Thursday, and he was quite impressed.

"But these things do take time. We had meetings again in London yesterday - and while it is time-consuming and energy-sapping, it's what you have to do. We really want the player to come. We just have to give him as much of a chance to sort things out with Fulham."