Payne Checks In On Loan

Oldham Athletic are pleased to announce the signing of Kai Payne on loan until 11 November.

The 19-year-old was in the academy at Liverpool until the age of 13, where he then joined Wigan Athletic following a trial in 2018.

He signed his first professional contract in 2022 when in his second year of his scholarship.

Payne went out on loan to local side Mossley to gain some experience, he went on to make nine appearances and scored two goals becoming a popular figure.

“I’m delighted to sign, this is a massive club and I can’t wait to get started,” Payne said.

“I think this will be massive for my development , I’m a young lad who’s hungry to get out there and play.

“I’ve been doing well at Wigan, but it’s just about getting some minutes, I’ve been working with my agent to get something done and Oldham came up and it was a no brainer.

“I’m a high energetic player who will hopefully contribute with goals and assists and will do anything to bring success.”

He made his debut for Wigan in an EFL Trophy game against Tranmere in November 2023.

His league debut came this season when Wigan beat Crawley 1-0 and Payne came on as a 58th minute substitute.

On securing his services Micky Mellon said: “I’m really excited about getting Kai in, with injuries we’ve got at the minute it’s great to bring him in.

“We watch a lot of football and have a lot of connections, Kai is one we’ve always wanted if he’s available.

“He’s a talented young man eager to play football, and he will be a great addition to our good squad.

“He’s a holding midfielder who will slip in and compliment what we already have, so we’re looking forward to seeing what he can do in an Oldham shirt.”

He will wear the number 26.

Welcome to the club, Kai.