Steve Bruce Talks Up Hugo Rodallega

Wigan Athletic manager Steve Bruce is adamant that Hugo Rodallega can be a Premier League success, should he successfully complete a switch to the JJB Stadium this January.

The Colombian international striker, who has scored six times in the process of winning 21 caps, is set to join the Latics this month from Mexican club Necaxa in a deal worth £4.5 million.

The Rayados have said that they will release the player on January 15, but Wigan still have to settle the issue of securing a work permit.

However, Bruce is confident that the deal will go through and that the 23-year-old has the qualities to establish himself as a top-class forward.

"He is an exceptional player in South America and will be an exceptional player for us," the 48-year-old is quoted as saying in The Sun. "I hope we can tie it up. He is only 23 but he is an exciting player and it would be great if we could get him.

"He’s fast, he’s big, about 6ft 1in, he’s good in the air, rangy rather than thick-set, can score a goal; he’s just a genuine all-round striker.

"It would be really exciting if we can get him, so I hope we can. Fingers crossed. We’re close to it but when you’re dealing with someone from abroad it is already racked with problems.

"We have to go and apply for a work permit. I believe that has been set for some time next week and that’s on the agenda.

"I don’t envisage there will be any problems, I hope not anyway."

Should Rodallega complete his switch to Wigan, the Latics could allow Senegalese international forward Henri Camara a move to relegation battling Stoke City for around £1 million.

Ricky Brooks, Goal.com