Oldham Athletic are delighted to announce the signing of Mark Kitching on a two-and-a-half-year deal.
The 27-year-old arrives after two full seasons at Stockport County, where he won the National League title last season.
A left-sided player who can operate in the defence or in midfield, he has also featured in the EFL for Rochdale and Hartlepool.
Manager David Unsworth said: “The move has been in the offing for a few weeks and he brings so many of the qualities we need to the team.
“He’s played at this level and a couple of levels above, he’s a leader and I’m absolutely delighted that he’s signed. A couple of other clubs were interested, including ones from the EFL, and there points when I didn’t think we’d get him but I’m thrilled that he’s committed himself to us.
“We need to get players in with the right character and ones who know the league to allow us to build. The team is changing every week and if we can keep adding the quality we have done then we’ll definitely be heading in the right direction.”
Born in the North East, Kitching came through the academy at Middlesbrough as a youngster.
Following a short loan spell with York, he joined Rochdale on a permanent basis and made 29 appearances for the club before signing for Hartlepool.
He was ever-present for the Pools, appearing 78 times in the National League before joining Stockport in 2020.
In his debut season he helped The Hatters finish 3rd, before winning the league last season on 94 points.
After making a handful of appearances for the club in League Two this season, he was allowed to leave the club.
Kitching will wear squad number 26 and a full video interview will follow. The move is subject to FA clearance.
Welcome to Latics, Mark!