Latics have missed out on transfer target Paddy Madden, after the striker signed for National League champions Chesterfield.

The 34-year-old former Scunthorpe and Fleetwood forward left Stockport County at the end of last season after failing to agree terms on a new deal, despite helping to fire them to the League Two title with 17 goals in 42 games.

Madden, who was the joint ninth top scorer in the division, was believed to have been a target for Oldham Athletic this summer, but he has been snapped up by Chesterfield.

And Madden said Spireites boss Paul Cook was a big factor in him making the move to Derbyshire.

After signing a two-year deal, Madden said: “I’m buzzing to get the deal done. It’s a massive club that I’ve always enjoyed playing against. The supporters have always followed the club fantastically.

“As soon as Paul (Cook) rang me, I knew I wanted to come and play for him and the club. He’s always been a brilliant manager.

“Obviously I won League Two with Stockport last season but who knows, what’s to say we can’t do it again.

“Football is about winning and I want to win football games, that’s what this club and manager do.

“I’m so excited to be here and I can’t wait to get going.”