Gomez played under Martinez on loan at Swansea last season, scoring 14 goals in the Coca-Cola Championship, and the relationship between the two was a key factor in the deal happening so quickly.

More arrivals are expected shortly as the Spaniard prepares for his maiden season managing in the top flight, although there will also be departures with utility man Paul Scharner declaring his desire to leave.

The signing of Gomez – for a reported £1.7m – represents something of a coup for Martinez considering the quality of opposition also tracking the former Barcelona youth team player.

“Jordi is a real quality player, [has] a great left foot and is extremely pleasing on the eye as a player,” said Martinez.

“I have no doubts in my mind that he will do well in the Premier League.

“He is a creative player with fantastic technical ability but he also knows how to look after himself on a football field.

“I think he can go all the way in the game, and to play in the Premier League is the next step in his career.”

Martinez added: “To be honest I was surprised we managed to get him at Swansea last season, but now that he is available, he is a player I really wanted to bring on board.

“He can play in several different positions and will score goals from midfield.

“We are a little light in numbers and I want to press ahead and bring in some more real quality into the squad.

“You need to have healthy competition for places and we must make sure that the players coming in are of the correct standard and mental attitude for us. Watch this space.”

That approach seems to confirm Scharner’s exit will come sooner rather than later.

The Austria international’s agent claims Fulham are leading the race to sign the utility player, although a reported £6m fee for a 29-year-old would represent good business for the Latics.

“Aston Villa wanted him as a defender and that is why they are no longer an option,” said Valentin Hobel, referring to the player’s preference for a midfield role.

“Fulham are strong at the moment. However, there is still the possibility he could go to Germany with Hamburg.

“He will look at his options very carefully.

“If they can offer concrete figures and everything else all fits into place, then it could happen quickly and all be concluded within a week.”

Midfielder Lee Cattermole, a reported target for former Wigan manager Steve Bruce at Sunderland, will not be allowed to leave though.

“Lee is not going anywhere. You just cannot replace these kind of players,” said Latics chairman Dave Whelan.