Manager Keith Hill has landed “an uncut diamond” with teenager Joe Bunney agreeing non-contract terms with the club.
The 19-year-old striker, who is one to watch for the future, has impressed during a three week trial period.
The youngster has been at Northwich Victoria and is eligible to continue playing for the The Evo-Stik First Division South side on matchdays, but will spend his week with the Dale first team.
Manager Keith Hill commented: “I see a roughness to the player and I see really good aspects of his game that need developing. He’s got great energy, enthusiasm and hunger. He’s that hungry, he’s starving, and that’s what you want as manager - you want players to be hungry for an opportunity and he is.
“He will continue to play with Northwich but this means we can have a good look at him, give him a training programme and see if he kicks on with respect to next season. It’s a punt but I think there’s an uncut diamond there.”