Montague said “The board, together with the management team, identified Matty as a top target for this summer – so we’re absolutely delighted to sign him on a two-year contract.
“Matty brings so many positive qualities but, perhaps most importantly, he’s one of the most dominant defenders in the league thanks to his incredible aerial presence, defensive instincts and determination to win first contacts and duels.
“These attributes will help us become more resolute both in open play and at dead balls, while we also feel he can pose a major problem for opposition defences at attacking set pieces.
“Having played in the middle of a back three under Ian Evatt at Barrow, we also have every confidence in Matty’s ability to embrace our style of play – which we know was a huge influence in him choosing us over many other clubs this summer.
“While he is more than capable of being a top performer for us next season, at 26, and with a fantastic attitude and clear desire to improve, we feel he is someone who can progress through the leagues with us.
“From our perspective, Matty’s arrival is the perfect start to our summer transfer business and is a reflection of the quality we’re looking to bring to the club ahead of the new season.”