Blyth Spartans have agreed a deal for Arran Wearmouth, subject to final confirmation from the FA.
The 21-year-old forward has signed from Northern League side Bishop Auckland, re-joining former manager Colin Myers and a number of his ex-teammates at Croft Park for this season.
And Wearmouth is itching to begin life at his new club – after being tracked by a number of other clubs recently.
He said: “I’ve been waiting to sign and it’s dragged on a bit now, but the two clubs have sorted it out and I just can’t wait to get started.
“There were a few other clubs interested in me, but I only wanted to join Blyth once I knew they were interested.
“From the first couple of sessions I’ve had, there have been no problems for me settling in at all. They’re all a good bunch of lads and I’m happy to see them again.
“Colin was also a big draw for me to come, but I would have wanted to sign for Blyth even if he wasn’t here.
“Colin being here is a bonus, but I’m looking forward to working with Tom as well.”
The forward called off a holiday to Ibiza to sign for Spartans in order to get ready for competitive action – after missing out on virtually the whole of pre-season.
Wearmouth said: “I should have been in Ibiza now, to be honest. I’m a bit disappointed with the timing, but I have to be sensible and, obviously, it shows my commitment to the club as well.
“I’ve done quite a bit by myself, but it’s completely different just running to when you get into the high-intensity stuff like I’ve done in the sessions so far.
“I’ve been blowing a bit after them, but I feel better after them than I thought I would.
“Obviously, I want to play as soon as possible, but it’s up to Tom and Colin. However, I’m being realistic at the same time, given that I’ve not had much of a pre-season.
Manager Tom Wade is delighted to have Wearmouth at the club and was quick to compare the youngster to a certain established member of the squad.
Wade said: “He’s a big strong player, he’s 6ft 3′. He’s very powerful, despite only being a young lad.
“He’s like a young Robert Dale in a way. So, if he can do as well as Robbie has during the season, then we’ll be delighted.
“He’s enthusiastic, has a lot of pace and is a very positive player. He’s confident as well, so I’m looking forward to seeing him play.”