EFL club left gutted as Chelsea snap up star in under-the-radar transfer

Wigan Athletic have expressed their disappointment at seeing young star Harrison Bettoni depart for Chelsea.

The 18-year-old attacking midfielder has joined the Blues from the League One club on a four-year deal, with the two sides agreeing a ‘significant’ amount of compensation.

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Having signed for Wigan at under-13 level, Bettoni rose through the ranks to break into the first team.

He made his senior debut last season, scoring four goals in 26 appearances overall.

He notched up the only goal of the game as Wigan shocked Championship Preston North End in the FA Cup third round.

Wigan disappointed but proud

Announcing Bettoni’s exit, Wigan managing director Sarah Guilfoyle said: “As a club, we made every possible effort to retain Harrison.

“We offered Harrison multiple strong and competitive long-term offers to remain at Wigan Athletic, reflecting both the high regard we have for his ability and the importance we saw him having in our future.

“Ultimately, every player reaches a point where they must make a decision they believe is right for their career. Harrison has chosen to pursue a new opportunity, and while we are disappointed not to see him continue his journey with us, we respect his decision.

“We’ve worked closely with Chelsea to agree a compensation package that reflects the time, care, and investment our academy has put into Harrison’s development from a young age. Producing talented young players is something our academy takes immense pride in, and it’s important that work is recognised.

“We thank Harrison for everything he has contributed during his time with us and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”

Bettoni becomes Chelsea‘s fifth signing of the summer so far.

Earlier this week, the Blues completed a British-record £117m move to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa.

Meanwhile, Alejandro Garnacho has moved the other way on loan but with an obligation to buy if certain conditions are met.

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The other new arrivals at Stamford Bridge are right-back Marco Palestra, striker Emmanuel Emegha and Geovany Quenda, who have come in from Atalanta, Strasbourg and Sporting Lisbon respectively.

The start of the Alonso era

Chelsea are preparing for the 2026/27 season with a new manager at the helm, Xabi Alonso.

They begin their Premier League campaign with a West London derby away to Fulham on August 24, before their home opener against Brighton on August 30.

Wigan, meanwhile, are building up to a third straight season in the third tier.

The Latics finished 15th last term, re-appointing Gary Caldwell as their boss in February.

They travel to newly promoted Cambridge United as the League One campaign kicks off on August 15.