Former Blackburn Rovers player Charley Doyle has signed for Stalybridge Celtic.
The 21-year-old, who has impressed during a trial, was recently released by the Championship club.
Doyle, who spent three years as a professional at Ewood Park where he had been since the age of eight.
Celtic manager Simon Haworth revealed he beat off other clubs to sign the in-demand Doyle who featured in midfield, scoring a spectacular goal against West Didsbury and Chorlton and finding the net against Chadderton.
Doyle, who can also play anywhere across the back four, made more than 50 appearances for Rovers’ Under-23 side.
Haworth, speaking to the club’s website, declared: “Charley is an excellent player who will really improve our midfield.
“He can compete physically, but he is also very comfortable on the ball and has scored a couple goals for us already.
“He has been great on trial over the last few weeks and we are really looking forward to seeing him improve and develop with us this season.”
Doyle’s arrival comes days after the signing of 23-year-old centre half Matty Makinson.
He began his career at Everton and later had spells at Blackburn Rovers and Cardiff City.
Since switching to non-league, he has played for Warrington Town, Colne and latterly a short spell at FC United.
Makinson spent part of last season on loan with Atherton Collieries and scored their opening goal in a 4-1 win against Celtic.
Haworth explained Makinson was brought in to provide extra competition at centre back.