Reece Staunton has become the first new signing of the Jamie Chandler era after the Moors boss concluded a deal to bring the former Bradford City defender to The Brewery Field.

The versatile 21-year-old was a free agent this summer following a season on the books at Bradford (Park Avenue) and Chandler has made it a priority to secure the talented youngster’s signature.

Comfortable in the centre of defence, at left-back or even in a midfield role, Staunton came through the ranks at Bradford City where he was on the books from being just 11 years old.

He made a senior debut for The Bantams when he was 15, becoming the club’s youngest ever player when he featured in their Football League Trophy fixture against Rotherham United in November 2017.

Staunton gained further senior experience during loan stays at Ossett United and Bradford (Park Avenue) before turning professional at City in November 2019 and then signing a new four-year deal in September 2020.

A further loan to Park Avenue materialised during 2021/22 before an undisclosed fee saw the former Republic of Ireland Under-18 international make that move permanent last summer.

“We are delighted with the addition of Reece,” said boss Chandler.

“He is a young player with very good experience at this level and higher, and he ticks a lot of boxes for us with the type of players we want joining the Club and moving us forward.

“Reece is ambitious, hungry and wants to develop and progress.

“He possesses a very good left foot and will add real value to the team from a technical point as well as provide us with more balance in the left-hand side areas of the pitch.

“We are really excited by this signing and can’t wait to work with Reece in the coming season.”

Staunton’s arrival is subject to the usual clearance from The Football Association and National League.