Carlisle United have sold Jon Mellish to League One club Wigan Athletic.

The defender, who was the Blues' longest-serving player, has left Brunton Park after five-and-a-half years.

The Latics have paid an undisclosed fee for the popular 27-year-old.

Mellish's move is expected to kickstart a series of departures from United as head coach Mike Williamson overhauls his squad for the League Two survival fight.

Carlisle said they did not want to lose Mellish but the defender was keen to take the opportunity at Wigan, who had unsuccessfully bid for the player last summer.

"Jon is someone we didn't want to lose but he expressed his wishes to go and play at the highest level which we fully respect," Williamson told United's website.

"His service and commitment to this club has been fantastic and I'm sure everyone will wish him all the best as he moves on."

Mellish has signed a three-and-a-half year contract with Wigan, who are 17th in League One.

“It feels unbelievable. It has finally happened and I am delighted to be here," he told his new club's website.

“I have had really good conversations with the gaffer [Shaun Maloney] and Gregor [Rioch, sporting director] and everything they have said aligns with me and my ambition.

"Growing up, Wigan was always a Premier League club so I know how big the club is and I am dying to get started and show everyone what I have got.”

Maloney said of Mellish: "Jon is an excellent addition to our team because of his technical skills, competitive nature, and versatility in playing centre back, left back and in midfield.

"He is someone we have been monitoring for a long time, and I am pleased we were able to convince Jon to join us in building what we aspire to achieve.”

Rioch added: "We have been tracking Jon for a long time and I am thrilled we have been able to secure his signature.

"I want to thank Carlisle United for allowing Jon to take up a new challenge with us and I wish him all the best during his time here.”

Mellish joined United from Gateshead in the summer of 2019 under Steven Pressley, and went on to make 246 appearances for the Blues, scoring 32 goals.

He played in a host of positions during his time at the club, from centre-back to wing-back to midfield to attack.

Although predominantly a defender, he had a remarkable season in 2020/21 when scoring 16 goals from midfield for Chris Beech's side.