David Unsworth believes the signing of Charlie Raglan is a clear indication of Oldham Athletic's ambition.

The defender turned down the offer of a new contract with League One Cheltenham in favour of returning to his native north west for family reasons, and this week put pen to paper on a two-year deal at Boundary Park.

Latics boss Unsworth explained the deal came about unexpectedly, but was delighted with the club's reaction to it and ability to keep it under the radar amid the threat of competition for the 30-year-old's signature.

"Charlie is an unbelievable signing," said Unsworth.

"He gives us quality first and foremost. He can play either side, he's a leader, he's tough, he's a fighter, he's a battler. He can play in a three, which we might do at some point.

"He's a proper centre back, and he can pass the ball as well. We're getting a League One player basically. And he was desperate to come.

"It's all about timing and Charlie and his partner have just had twins and were looking to get back to the north west.

"His agent phoned me and asked what our thoughts were, and as soon as we knew he was available we wanted to get it done, and get it done quickly.

"He's a proven League One player, he'd turned down a two-year deal at Cheltenham."

Unsworth added: "It's an unbelievable signing, great timing, and the fact that we were able to do it quickly is great.

"Even at our level deals don't happen overnight, they take a bit of time, and somehow we managed to keep it quiet, which is difficult in this day and age. There's always a lot of speculation. At every club I've been at word has always got out about who you might be chasing or after.

"There are also a lot of red herrings as well.

"But we managed to keep this one quiet.

"Darren and I wanted to get it done as quickly as possible and it was brilliant that we could.

"Within three or four days we'd agreed and Charlie was in for his medical and before anyone knew it Alan (Jones, media officer) was doing one of his productions."