Guernsey-born Adams has joined on a season-long loan for the 2024-25 campaign, having been on City’s wanted list throughout the summer.
The 20-year-old spent the second half of last term on loan at Morecambe, scoring twice in 21 appearances.
He started his career at Hampshire outfit Eastleigh and headed north to join Wigan in 2022.
Adams said: “I am buzzing to be here. I have waited quite a while over the summer and pre-season, but I am happy to be here now.
“I am really looking forward to starting and am ready to make an impact here.
“Hopefully, we can have a successful season and I am looking forward to seeing your support on Saturday.”
City manager Graham Alexander, whose side welcome EFL newboys Bromley in their League Two home opener this weekend, added: “We have had to be patient waiting for Joe to join us, so we are very happy he is now here.
“His ability on the ball and running power will be a great addition to us.”
The start of our season went from ‘bad’ to ‘worse’ last weekend when a gutless 2-0 defeat at Reading exposed an even greater number of flaws within our struggling team.
Our opponents controlled the match from the first kick to the final whistle and – if not for the exceptional play of Sam Tickle in goal – it could have easily stretched the scoreline to 4-0 or 5-0.
There’s no universally accepted way to respond to losing football matches. The gaffer and the owner have already reached the end of a very short lease for a small subsection of the fanbase.