Danny Hattersley, who spent two months on loan with Chester FC last season, has signed for former Blues boss Neil Young at Altrincham.
Hattersley made eight appearances without registering a goal during his spell from FC Halifax Town, although some fans credited the 24-year-old with bringing the best out of Ross Hannah, who scored seven times in eight games alongside the ex-Southport forward.
Hattersley departed Halifax at the end of the 2015/16 season and there were rumours linking him with a return to Chester, however The Chronicle understands he was never on Jon McCarthy's radar.
He follows former Blues team-mate Craig Hobson in moving to Altrincham , who are aiming to bounce back from relegation to the National League North.
Young was named as Lee Sinnott's successor at the start of last month and has overhauled the squad with 12 new signings, including Jamie Menagh and Sean Miller, who worked under him at Chester.
He revealed he had attempted to sign Hattersley when managing the Blues and his previous club Stockport County.
Young said: "I'm very happy to be able to bring Danny to the club, as he is someone I have tried to sign at my previous two clubs.
"He brings good experience, even though he is only 24, and, although his move to Halifax never really worked out, the fact remains that, only 18 months ago, he was being looked at by Football League clubs.
"He has so much to offer, and, given confidence and matches, I think he will be a great addition to our squad. At only 24, 6ft 3in tall and hard-working, he fits the profile of player we are looking to bring to the club.
"We have also agreed a contract with an experienced holding midfield player from the Football League who can also play at centre-back. Once his current contract has finished, we will be able to announce that one as well."
