Thomas on trial with Monaco

With Monaco being a principality it has different work permit regulations to those of the UK, and in a move similar to that performed by Manchester United and Arsenal with Belgian clubs, Thomas will play in Monaco whilst earning enough international caps to win a work permit for the UK.

The AS Monaco official website suggests that Thomas has indeed signed for the Latics but with his ineligibility to play in England a loan move is being struck with Ricardo Gomes' side.