OLDHAM Athletic have missed out on one of their prime transfer targets.

The Oldham Times understands Latics were hopeful of landing Niall Maher on a free transfer from FC Halifax Town, where he had come to the end of his contract.

Maher ticked a lot of boxes for head coach John Sheridan, who has set out a list of requirements in his recruitment drive, with National League experience, leadership qualities and location among the key factors.

Manchester-born Maher, who spent more than four years with Halifax, was made captain 18 months ago and was an integral part of a side that boasted the best defensive and home records in the National League last season, has been pursued by League Two clubs including Northampton Town, Leyton Orient and Rochdale.

Latics were confident they had done enough to fend off competition from EFL sides and tempt Maher to Boundary Park as they look to build a squad capable of challenging for a return to the Football League at the first attempt next season.

But with Maher able to explore his options as a free agent, the deal has fallen through and the 26-year-old looks set to join a Football League club, having missed out on the chance of promotion following a play-offs defeat to Chesterfield.

Barrow, where former Latics and Halifax boss Pete Wild has recently been appointed as manager, appear to now be in pole position to secure Maher's signature.

After leaving Halifax, where he made over 150 appearances, the former Bolton Wanderers man posted on Twitter: “Thank you for 4.5 years but it is time for a new challenge and chapter in my career.

“To be your captain over the last 18 months has been a massive honour.

“To the players - it’s been one hell of a season with a great dressing room to manage and there is no doubt that you all deserve to be achieving the best in your careers wherever that may be.

“I have met some friends and family for life. I wish you all the best in your careers.”

He added: “To ALL the staff thank you for everything you have done for me - to give me a platform again to showcase my talent and develop me into who I am today. I couldn’t have done it without you all.

“To the fans - since that first day you made me fell one of your own and I’m so glad that the past few seasons the bond between the club, players, fans has grown stronger and together it is moving in the right direction.

“I wish Milly [manager, Chris Millington] and all his staff all the best next year and you fully back him with the squad he will assemble - he fully deserves this opportunity.
“I hope to be back one day.”