The 22-year-old has agreed a two-year deal and was on loan at Wigan from January until the end of the season but made only one outing - in the FA Cup.

Hutchings told Wigan's website: "There was a lot of interest in Andreas.

"That's why I wanted to get this done quickly. He has bags of potential and the ability to make a real impact."

Wigan were so keen to make sure of the signing they sent a delegation, headed by chief executive Brenda Spencer, to wrap up the deal at a meeting in Denmark.

I get on really well with the manager and I am very optimistic about the future Andreas Granqvist

Hutchings added: "He is good technically, he's strong and powerful and has pace.

"Now it's up to us to make sure we harness that potential and turn him into a Premier League regular."

Granqvist joins fellow new arrivals Titus Bramble, Antoine Sibierski and Mario Melchiot at the JJB Stadium.

"I really like the atmosphere at the club and I feel I learned a lot from being involved last season," he said.

"I feel I can now push and challenge for a regular first-team place next season.

"I get on really well with the manager and I am very optimistic about the future. I can't wait to get back and start challenging for my place."