Wigan boss Steve Bruce on Saturday night revealed midfield star Antonio Valencia has rejected the chance to join Real Madrid.
Bruce, whose team earned a goalless Barclays Premier League draw at high-flying Aston Villa, has already lost the services of Emile Heskey and Wilson Palacios in the January transfer window - and feared Valencia could also be heading for the exit door at the JJB Stadium.
"Valencia has turned down an offer from Real Madrid. It only happened last night (Friday) - and it is great news for us," said Bruce.
"He is prepared to stay with us until the end of the season at least - which is fantastic.
"We have lost Emile and Wilson, and the last thing you want to do is rebuild a team in January. Keeping hold of Antonio was paramount.
It was a second boost for Bruce as he looks to complete the signing of Newcastle defender Charles N'Zogbia during the next 24 hours.
"As regards N'Zogbia, we have agreed a fee with Newcastle; we spoke to him last night - and he was at the game today.
"There is still a bit to do to get over the line, and we will see what develops."
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