Through a statement on their official website, EFL Championship side Wigan Athletic have announced that Nigerian-born central defender Emeka Obi has inked his first professional contract with the club.

The 17-year-old's new deal with Wigan Athletic will keep him at The Latics until the end of the 2019-2020 season.

Obi was once touted to be the best 15-year-old in England which prompted Liverpool to sign him, though this move was never announced as a done deal by the Anfield club.

''We have been tracking Emeka over the past couple of seasons and we are delighted to bring Emeka to Wigan Athletic on a professional contract, '' Head of Academy Gregor Rioch told Wigan's official website.

''Emeka is an exciting talent who has been monitored by a number of Premier League clubs and has settled in really well at Wigan Athletic.

"As a Central Defender, he is one of the brightest prospects of his age in the Country''.

Emeka Obi became the youngest player in Bury's history when he made his professional debut in August 2016 aged 15 years and 86 days.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : wiganathletic.com