Mansfield Town manager Adam Murray has secured his first signing of the close-season with the capture of former Newport County and Stags’ midfielder Adam Chapman on a free transfer.

The 25-year-old will be well remembered by Stags fans for the part he played in the Conference Premier winning season in 2013, scoring four goals in 11 appearances.

He became the first player to score a hat-trick on his debut for the Stags, at home to Stockport County in March that year, since Keith Cassells in 1985.

On his return to One Call Stadium, the former Oxford United and Newport player said: “It feels brilliant to be back.

“I’ve turned down more money from other clubs to come here; that’s how passionate I am to be here. I hoped I could stay here last time, but didn’t get the chance.

“I’ve known the manager for quite a long period of time. He has shown a massive interest in getting me here. The vision he sold me, and how he wants to play football, really excites me.”

Manager Adam Murray said: “At this level, he’s probably one of the best midfielders around. He has a good presence, fitness, good distribution and he has ‘a goal in him’. He’ll ‘get us playing’.”