BURY have beaten League One rivals Chestefield to the signing of former Chelsea and Barnsley midfielder Jacob Mellis on a free transfer.

The 24-year-old, who it is understood was due to join up with the Spireites for pre-season training, has signed a two-year deal after being released by relegated Blackpool last month.

Mellis, who began his career as a trainee at Sheffield United before joining Chelsea for £1 million in the summer of 2007, played under Bury boss David Flitcroft during his time managing the Tykes.

“He was an instrumental player in helping us stay in the Championship,” said Flitcroft.

“We built a very good relationship based on trust, and I believe this was a major factor in Jacob coming to Bury.

"The environment which we have created here will suit Jacob’s needs.

“We have an outstanding support infrastructure and other players here who will have a major impact on Jacob’s future, both on and off the pitch.”

Mellis is the fourth player to sign for the Shakers this summer, following Peter Clarke, a former team-mate at Blackpool, Wolves striker Leon Clarke and Port Vale front man Tom Pope.

"I have brought Jacob to the club as I feel he fits perfectly into the vision we have for our team on the pitch and into the new DNA profile for a Bury player,” added Flitcroft.

"Jacob has not yet reached his potential and it is our aim and desire to give him a home where he can fulfil that.

"I believe he will create opportunities and score goals. He can improve us in all forward areas of the pitch with his creation and execution quality.”

Mellis has played just 113 matches in league football over an eight-year career. But the majority of those came at Barnsley under Flitcroft, when he scored 10 goals in 81 appearances during  three years at Oakwell.