Manager David Holdsworth has seen off interest from two promotion-chasing Blue Square Premier Clubs to claim the signature of Luke Foster from Oxford United for an undisclosed fee.

The 24 year old, who stands at 6 ft 2 in tall has put pen to paper on 18 month deal.

Commanding defender Foster began his career with Sheffield Wednesday as a trainee and loans spells at Alfreton Town and Scarborough followed.

The utility man went on to sign permanently for Lincoln City, before joining York City on loan.  He then had a brief stint at Stalybridge Celtic and was soon snapped up by Oxford United boss Jim Smith in May 2007.

Foster was voted as the Supporters' Player of the Year in his first season and went on to make 118 appearances for the promotion chasing U's.

Manager David Holdsworth told mansfieldtown.net:  "I am delighted Luke has decided to join us and I am very pleased with the capture of this very strong centre half.

"He (Luke) has come here for the right reasons and sees us as potential promotion candidates.

"We have a great heartbeat here, directed from the Chairman, and we play in front of some wonderful supporters - these factors have attracted Luke to us."