Micky Mellon has made his second signing in his second term as Tranmere manager, bringing in midfielder Chris Merrie, the club has announced.

The 22-year-old midfielder moves to Prenton Park from Wigan Athletic for an undisclosed fee, despite being offered new terms by the Greater Manchester club.

Merrie has signed a two year deal with Rovers and played 31 times for the Latics last season.

Speaking to the club's website, manager Mellon said: “Chris is a really talented boy. He is a player I know a lot about, and the staff and I are looking forward to working with him.

“It is great to get him into the building. We are trying to build a midfield around the qualities we have with Jay Spearing and someone to play ahead of Jay and get forward and get involved in all of the play.

“Chris also has that appetite to win the ball back again. He played regularly for Wigan last season and they are a great football club. He comes with good pedigree and played in a division higher.

“He is at a great age, and we want to work with him, continue to help him move forward and improving him. He is a really good acquisition for Tranmere.” 

Merrie becomes Mellon's second signing since his return to the managerial hotseat after defender Tom Davies agreed to join the club yesterday on a one-year deal that commences on July 1.