Crewe first-team coach Steve Holland has conceded defeat in his bid to sign Gretna goalkeeper Greg Fleming.
Holland is desperate to secure a replacement first-team goalkeeper after first-choice Ben Williams and deputy Owain fon Williams both rejected new deals at Gresty Road.
However, Holland will now be forced to look elsewhere after Scotland Under-21 international Fleming snubbed the Railwaymen's advances and opted to join League One rivals Oldham.
"We've tried to sign the lad from Gretna but he's indicated he's joining Oldham," Holland told Crewe Guardian.