Archie Harris has joined Wigan Athletic on a two-year deal from Premier League side AFC Bournemouth. The 21-year-old versatile defender has signed ahead of the 2026/27 season, which begins with a Carabao Cup First Round fixture against Barnsley at Oakwell.
Harris spent almost a decade at Bournemouth, progressing through the youth ranks with the Cherries and establishing himself as a key player within their Academy setup. A Wales Under-21 international, he earned his first caps for his country after an impressive run of games with Bournemouth's U21s side. He was also included in several of the Cherries' Premier League matchday squads.
Harris on his move
Speaking after signing, Harris said: "I'm buzzing to be here; it feels really good, and I can't wait to get started. It's a huge Club, and I watched Wigan Athletic growing up as a kid in the Premier League. Being here today and looking out at the stadium, it's really good, and I'm really glad to be here."
Harris featured in Wigan's penultimate pre-season fixture against Southport at Haig Avenue. He added: "I've really enjoyed my time here so far. It's a great group of lads, and I'm excited to get going now. I had the chance last week with a good chunk of training, and the game at Southport to show what I can do, so to now settle in properly will be really good."
On working with the Wigan manager, Harris said: "The Gaffer has been really good with me, and he's settled me in really quickly with the lads. It's been great to speak to him, and he's got a clear layout of what he wants to achieve this season, which is really good to hear, and it's nice to be able to follow someone who wants the Club to do well."
