Bastia U-turn over Chimbonda deal
Last updated : 06 July 2005 By Paul Farrington
Wigan boss Paul Jewell confirmed yesterday that the Latics had agreed a contract with Chimbonda and he was due at the JJB for a medical until his club upped his asking price at the 11th hour.
Jewell said: "I thought we had a deal with him [Chimbonda] last week. But then his agent came back to me and said his club wanted more money for him. I told them I wouldn't go any higher."
However it now seems as though Bastia have dropped back to the original asking price and Wille McKay (the players agent) has confirmed that a deal is now on the cards.
He said: "Both clubs have agreed a fee for Chimbonda and now it is down to the player agreeing personal terms and passing a medical. Paul Jewell is set to speak to him and iron out a few details before the deal can be done.
"Pascal has rejected the opportunity to join Marseille as he wants to play in the English Premier League and he is looking forward to playing for Wigan."
Meanwhile Gareth Whalley, who was released by the Latics at the end of last season looks set to sign for Swindon Town in League One.
Robins boss Andy King said: "Whalley has been down and we have agreed on something, but he is going back home to think about it over the weekend. He still has a place in Cardiff which may help us in terms of location, but his family are in Manchester and has a decision to make.
"He is a quality midfielder and has played in the Championship so he has something about him. We have spoken and he is going to give me an answer after the weekend."
