Wigan Athletic have completed the signing of Middlesbrough midfielder Lee Cattermole.
Wigan boss Steve Bruce told the club's official website: "He's got everything going for him, he's young, he's courageous, he's a tireless worker and I think he can have a great career in football, hopefully for this club.
"He only turned 20 in April, and already he has played nearly 70 games in the Premier League, as well as in the UEFA Cup. That's exceptional. He can be a great leader of the future.
"I really think the sky's the limit with Lee. If he dedicates himself to the sport as he clearly has done up until now, and he keeps learning, there's no reason why he can't progress to full international honours. I am absolutely thrilled we've managed to get him."
Cattermole admitted it was hard to leaving Teesside, but is relishing the "new challenge" he has at Wigan.
He said: "I'm sad to be leaving my hometown club in many ways and I want to thank all the supporters and the club for everything they have done for me over the years.
"I just think the time is right for a new challenge and I see working with Steve Bruce here at Wigan as a fantastic opportunity because this is a team really going places.
"You just need to look at the squad to see that and I know I'm going to have to work really hard to get into the team."
