Wigan Athletic have completed the £2million signing of Ben Watson from Crystal Palace.
As revealed by skysports.com last week Wigan have beaten Premier League rivals Middlesbrough to Watson's signature.
Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate confirmed over the weekend that Watson was likely to join Wigan over a move to the Riverside.
Watson has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal at the JJB Stadium after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.
The 23-year-old will help fill the void created by Wilson Palacios' departure to Tottenham and he could make his debut against Liverpool on Wednesday.
Steve Bruce was delighted to land the former England Under 21 international.
"We have been watching Ben for some time, and believe he has the maturity to step back to the highest level and make an impression," said Bruce.
"He's a midfielder who scores goals, has quick feet, plenty of power and is a terrific prospect.
"I wanted to move quickly to start filling the gap left by Wilson Palacios, and Ben is the start of that process."
After beating Middlesbrough to Watson's signature, Bruce added: "It speaks volumes about the progress of the club that we can compete with established Premier League clubs for players.
"I am delighted Ben has agreed to join us. I think our supporters will take to
him quickly, because he's a real hundred percenter."
Watson was happy to be back in the Premier League after making 21 appearances for Palace in the top flight in 2004-o5.
"It's great to be back in the Premier League," said Watson.
"Steve Bruce is the big pull here, and it's a great time to be joining the club and a team who are really flying.
"I want to thank everyone at Palace, and all the supporters, because they have been great to me.
"But this is a terrific opportunity for me to play in the top flight again, and I just felt the time was right for a move for me."
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