Carlisle United have today clinched their first summer signing after swooping for Northampton winger Nicky Adams.

The attacking player, who helped the Cobblers to the League Two title, has joined on a two-year deal.

It is the first significant piece of business completed by Blues manager Keith Curle as he rebuilds his squad for the 2016/17 season.

Although Adams had been under contract at the Sixfields Stadium, Curle said no fee was involved in the deal.

The 29-year-old was a top priority target for the Carlisle boss and recruitment chief Lee Dykes in the market this close-season.

The Blues manager originally tried to land Adams last season but has now got his man after a week of hush-hush talks.

Curle said: "We tried getting Nicky in January and had conversations with his agent and Northampton.

"There was potential interest because of the situation Northampton were in with their ownership issues - people not being paid, a lack of stability and we saw it as a chance to potentially invest in one of their players.

"In the event their situation got sorted out and they were able to go on a fantastic run that saw them win the division.

"But we made good contacts and links which we were able to continue now.

"Nicky is at a good age, is a very mature young lad but still has a thirst and desire to play football which is evident in the meetings I've had with him.

"A lot of people will turn round and say 'how have you got him'?

"We've kept it in-house as much as we can. I don't think a lot of people will have known his availability.

"If it had been broadcasted, probably every team in League Two would have looked to acquire his services, and a large percentage in League One would have gladly signed him.

"I think it's a massive step in the right direction for us."

Adams, who also helped Bury to promotion in the 2014/15 season, described the move as a "no-brainer" once he had spoken to Curle.

The former Rochdale, Leicester and Crawley player also said the departure of Northampton boss Chris Wilder to Sheffield United, and his subsequent replacement by Rob Page, was a factor in his decision to leave Sixfields.

Adams said: "It's nice to be wanted and Keith has got real ambition for the club, and really sold it for me.

"I think it's going to come as a real surprise to many people. But things happen in football. The manager left who I had a great relationship, the new man has his own ideas and I wish him all the best because it's a special group.

"But I jumped at the chance to come here, I've played at Carlisle numerous times, the fans get right behind the team and I'm really looking forward to it.

"The aim is to get promoted. I was impressed with what the gaffer said."

Cobblers boss Page said Adams wanted to move further north to be closer to his family.

"We wish Nicky well," said Page on Northampton's website.

"He had already requested the opportunity to move back nearer to his family before my arrival and after further discussion we felt it was the right thing.

“Nicky certainly played a role in the club's success last season and I am sure he will go with the best wishes and thanks of all supporters.”

United say the deal has been agreed in principle and remains subject to the completion of all necessary paperwork.