ALTRINCHAM have secured a spectacular triple transfer breakthrough after adding three new faces to the list of existing players already lined up for the switch to full-time professional status next season.

Alty boss Phil Parkinson has lost free-scoring winger Dan Mooney to Southend United and centre-back Kyle Ferguson to an unnamed League Two side, but has more than made up for that double disappointment by landing versatile defenders Ross Barrows and Lewis Baines and midfielder Josh Lundstram, a massive hit during a loan spell at The J.Davidson Stadium two years ago.

The Robins needed a right-sided defender after Shaun Densmore’s retirement and on-loan full-back Harry Perritt’s return to his parent club Accrington Stanley, and Barrows fits the bill, following a standout season with King’s Lynn Town that made him a firm favourite with the Norfolk team’s fans.

Sheffield-born and still based in his home city, Barrows can operate at right-back or in central defence, while Chorley’s player of the year Baines will provide similar adaptability on the other side of the back line as a left-sided specialist.

Baines was recently capped at England C level, and a delighted Parkinson said: “Lewis is a defender we have monitored since his time at Fleetwood Town. He will give us balance in the back four, and he is similar to Toby Mullarkey, in the way he is comfortable on the ball and physically strong.

“He has turned down much bigger paydays to play for us - another player showing great desire to play for Altrincham. That’s exactly what we are looking for - players who are young and hungry to drive up the leagues.”

Lundstram made a huge impact on loan a couple of years ago when he slotted in seamlessly alongside skipper Jake Moult and played an integral part in the Robins’ dramatic promotion to the National League via the play-offs.

“Josh Lundstram is a player everyone at the club will be delighted to see wearing the red and white stripes once again - this time on a permanent deal,” said Parkinson.

“He will complement the other midfielders perfectly. When making this switch, we always had to think who could fill the hole when Moulty left. I don’t think we could have got a better player and person to come in to do this.”

Alty have arranged pre-season friendlies at Trafford on July 12 and away to the Isle of Man on July 16.