Sunderland have signed striker Will Grigg from Wigan for £4million.

The Black Cats, fifth in Sky Bet League One, have handed the Northern Ireland international a three-and-a-half-year contract.

A statement on Sunderland’s website confirmed the deal was struck “moments before the January transfer window slammed shut” on Thursday.

Grigg, who has won promotion from League One four times in the past five years, scored 65 goals in 150 appearances for the Latics.

Wigan boss Paul Cook told his club’s official website: “The club desperately wanted to keep Will but this is an offer we simply couldn’t refuse.

“This comes with so much emotional attachment because Will is so popular with our supporters and is somebody who has given everyone associated with the club so many great moments during, not just my time as the club’s manager, but throughout his three and a half years at Wigan Athletic.

“We all wish Will the very best for the future.”

Grigg joins Jimmy Dunne, Grant Leadbitter, Lewis Morgan and Kazaiah Sterling in moving to the Stadium of Light during the transfer window, while Max Power’s loan deal was also made permanent.