Darlington expect to have a new signing in the squad this weekend as French winger Nelson Mota is due to join the top-of-the-table side.

While Mota’s previous club, Rambottom United, announced the move on Monday evening, the paperwork was still not complete last night, however, Quakers manager Martin Gray expects to complete the surprise move today.

While a winger does not appear to be a position Quakers require immediate strengthening, Gray explained his reasoning behind the move.

“Adding to the squad when you’re in a position of strength is the best way to do it, it keeps everybody on their toes.

“I got a call from a contact of mine in the Manchester area who told me about Nelson, so we’ve had a look at him in training and he did very well. He’s quick and got good technique.

“He’s a good lad and has fitted in no problem.”

Mota, 25, moved from FC United of Manchester in the summer to Ramsbottom, the club that defeated Darlington in the play-offs at the end of last season.

He made four starts and five appearances off the bench for Rammy, scoring once, and joint-manager Anthony Johnson said: “Nelson wasn't getting the game time he wanted with us, so has taken the chance to play regularly with Darlington, another player leaving to play a lower level, which is naturally disappointing for us.”

The transfer marks something of a first for Gray, whose previous signings have been North-East-based players, primarily from clubs in the Ebac Northern League.

Mota is based in the North-West, but travel on Thursdays for training, which takes place at Longfield Academy in Darlington, and stay in the region until Saturday evening.

Mots will be in the squad at Heritage Park for Darlington’s match with Lancaster City on Saturday, by which time Gray hopes to add a defender to his squad.

While Alan White will play after being unavailable for last Saturday’s draw with Clitheroe, Gary Brown and Chris Hunter will both be suspended.

Following his red card against St Neots almost a fortnight ago, also banned will be Liam Hatch, who Gray left out of the squad entirely last Saturday despite his ban not starting until the forthcoming weekend.

* The Darlington 1883 Fundraising Group’s monthly quiz takes place ths evening at the Dolphin Centre, Darlington with a top prize of £350. It starts at 8pm, all are welcome.