Bradford (Park Avenue) have announced the signing of Josh Ashman, a 20-year-old right-sided centre-back who joins the club from Matlock Town.

Ashman, who used to captain Sheffield Wednesday’s Under-21s spent the 2023/24 season with Guiseley AFC before moving to Matlock Town in July 2024.

He is the fourth signing Avenue have made over the last fortnight, with Elie Ikwa and Jack Normanton also joining, as well as former Football League stalwart Mark Beevers.

The young defender began his football journey with Sheffield Rangers, later joining the Qualitas private academy and Sheffield Schoolboys, where he was scouted by Sheffield Wednesday.

At the age of 14, he entered Wednesday’s academy, progressing through the ranks to sign a professional contract, and later captained their Under-21 side.

Following his release by the Owls in May 2023, Ashman spent a year at Guiseley before his brief spell at Matlock.

Avenue manager Craig Elliott said: “Josh is a player who has faced challenges but has shown resilience and determination.

“His background at Sheffield Wednesday and experience in the Northern Premier League will be invaluable to us.

“We’re excited to have him onboard.”

Avenue said: “Josh’s impressive defensive skills and leadership qualities have earned him a reputation as a rising talent.

“We are delighted to welcome Josh to Bradford (Park Avenue) and look forward to his contributions as we strengthen our defensive unit.”

The signing of Ashman comes less than two weeks after midfielder Connor Dimaio went the other way.

Dimaio only joined Avenue from Matlock in the summer, and was quickly installed as captain.

But he was offered the chance to return to Matlock earlier this month and took the opportunity, with Town playing in the league above Avenue the NPL Premier Division.