Dale have secured the signature of central defender Neal Trotman on a two year contract following his release from Preston North End.

The deal has been rumoured for the past couple of days after news emanated from Devon that Peter Reid's cash strapped Plymouth Argyle side had failed in a bid to capture Trotman, and that Spotland was to be his likely destination.

Those rumours proved true on Thursday when the club announced that Trotman has signed a two year deal to join up with Steve Eyre's squad. Dale have worked hard to secure his signature and Trotman was flown out to Spain at the weekend to join up with the rest of the squad.

Trotman started his career at Burnley before a successful move to Oldham. He was considered an excellent prospect at Boundary Park, earning himself a big money move to Championship side Preston North End.

An injury early in his time at Preston hampered his move, and he had to make do with a succession of loan moves to leading League One sides for first team football including a spell helping Huddersfield make the Play Offs in 2009-10.

Reports have Trotman as the commanding centre half that was first suggested earlier in the week and is noted for his aerial ability and his strength.

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