MOTHERWELL have clinched their third signing of the January transfer window after securing a loan deal for Bury defender Tom Aldred.

He follows strikers Curtis Main and Nadir Ciftci in penning a deal with the club this month.

The centre-back will remain at Fir Park until the end of the season after making 23 appearances for the League One side this term.

Aldred has previous experience of Scottish football, having had a short spell on loan at Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 2011.

Speaking to Motherwell's official website, the 27-year-old explained that a return north of the border has been on his radar for some time.

"Playing in the Scottish Premiership was something I was really interested in,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to getting going. I am familiar with Scotland. My mum’s side of the family are Scottish and I’ve visited up here a few times.

"I keep an eye on Scottish football and I’m aware Motherwell have had a good season so far.

“Obviously with them doing well in the cup as well. I know a few of the boys as well I’ve played with, and against, in England.”

Aldred joined Bury from Blackpool last summer and has had previous spells at a number of clubs in England including Accrington Stanley, Colchester United, Barrow and Watford.

Steelmen manager Stephen Robinson was happy to add depth to his defensive options during the winter break ahead of this weekend's Scottish Cup fourth round clash with Lanarkshire neighbours Hamilton Accies.

"We were clear from the start of the January window we were looking to increase our options in central defence.” he said.

“Tom ticks that box and arrives at the club with plenty experience under his belt.

“We tried to get him in the summer, so we are delighted to finally have him at Motherwell.”