Dale manager Steve Eyre has made his first signing since becoming Dale manager by beating off competition from a number of other clubs to sign Ashley Grimes.
Striker Grimes came to the attention of many a lower league scout after a blistering spell last season with Lincoln City last season where he grabbed 17 goals in just 25 games during a loan spell from Millwall. That wasn't enough for Millwall to offer him a new deal, and he was released at the back end of 2010-11.
Colchester and Shrewsbury Town were just two clubs who had pinned their hopes on securing the services of Swinton born Grimes, but the chance to work again with Dale boss Steve Eyre played a part in persuading Grimes to come to Spotland.
If you're after omens, then Ashley Grimes started off at the same boys club in Salford (Barr Hill FC) where a certain Tony Ellis started his fledgling career many moons ago.