Martinez has several targets

Wigan boss plans more recruits from the Americas

Last updated: 12th January 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Martinez has several targets

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Roberto Martinez says he is keeping tabs on a number of players as he looks forward to strengthening his Wigan squad in the January transfer window.

The Spaniard is reportedly focusing a lot of his scouting on South and Central America, with general manager John Benson travelling to watch Honduras play Peru in the week.

The Latics already have Hondurans Hendry Thomas and Maynor Figueroa at the club and are reportedly targeting Johnny Palacios, the brother of former Wigan player Wilson.

However, Martinez insists that he is not making an isolated pursuit of one player but instead choosing to keep his options open.

"We really follow many players and we have to do it because we cannot have any errors in our signings," the former Swansea manager said.

"In every window we have to improve the squad and help the players we have here to become a stronger team.

Working hard

"It is too early to talk about names but we are working hard and have been since the summer.

"We need to get the right characters and personalities and they have to bring something different to the squad."

Martinez may also have to deal with the possibility of departures from the DW Stadium as Sunderland boss Steve Bruce may make a bid for left-back Figueroa.

The 26-year-old is currently sidelined with a knee problem, allowing the injury-plagued Erik Edman, who made his first league start of the season against Fulham before the international break, to fill-in again when Wigan face Tottenham at the weekend.

"We've been very pleased with Erik's return," Martinez added.

"It was a big step for him to be able to play competitive football again against Fulham and an exciting moment for us to see him back in action.

"He's getting stronger and fitter now and he's excited about the prospect of playing against one of his former clubs.

"So we're delighted to have a player back who gives us great quality and adds a competitive edge to the squad."