Transfer Day Round-up

Latics have signed Marcus Bent on a season's loan from Charlton Athletic.

We are the 10th club of Bent's career, which includes spells at Blackburn Rovers, Ipswich Town, Leicester City, Everton and Charlton.

After a £2.5million move from Everton in January last year, he scored just five goals in 52 appearances.

Hutchings, though, feels Bent's experience will prove invaluable and is delighted with his ninth signing of the summer.

"It's a great deal. We've got him on loan, which is a convenient arrangement for us" said Hutchings. "Marcus has played the majority of his career in the top flight, he's been there and done it, and knows how to look after himself at this level.

"He is a clever player who can fulfil a number of roles and whose game is far more than just about scoring. He's lively and brings others into play. He's a street-wise sort of player, who never gives any less than 100 per cent and is one of those lads you want on your side.

"I've always said that I'll only bring in players who I think will add a new dimension to the squad and I think Marcus fits the bill."

The arrival of Bent has allowed Latics to sell Caleb Folan to Hull City for a Tigers club record of £1m, with the 23-year-old signing a three-year contract. Folan spent a month on loan with the Tigers in 2001, but without making a first-team start. Folan joined Latics in January for £500,000 from Chesterfield, scoring twice in 16 appearances.

Dutch winger Rachid Bouaouzan has joined Latics from Sparta Rotterdam for an undisclosed fee.

The 23-year-old has signed a three-year contract at the JJB.

Chris Hutchings said: "I know he has been chased by several clubs, so I am delighted he has chosen to join us.

"He has bags of potential and exactly what it takes to be a success in this country. We were very keen to get him on board."

Bouaouzan, who is of Moroccan descent, was apparently persuaded to join Latics after speaking with Mario Melchiot and Denny Landzaat.

19 year-old striker Jonathan Smith has been released by Latics to be snapped up by Aberdeen on a one-year deal.

Henri Camara has joined West Ham United on a year long loan with a view to a permanent move. "If I don't get another chance, I'd like to thank all the Wigan Athletic supporters and the staff at the club who have made this a special two years for me. Let's see what the future holds in store!" said Camara