Wigan Athletic have confirmed the signing of defender James Tavernier from Newcastle United.

The 22-year-old right-back passed a medical on Friday before penning a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

Tavernier joined Newcastle in 2009, but the youngster struggled to make an impact in the first team at St James' Park.

"He will bring great competition on that side of the field, he is still learning and, at just 22, I feel that we can provide the right sort of environment for him to grow and develop into a really important player for this club," Wigan boss Uwe Rosler told the club's official website.

Tavernier spent the second half of last season on loan at Rotherham United.