South Shields boss reacts after swoop to sign prolific ex-Oldham striker Darius Osei from Stalybridge Celtic

The 24-year-old is third in this season's BetVictor Northern Premier Division leading scorers list with 14, including the two goals he scored against the Mariners in Saturday's 2-2 draw between the sides.

Shields' interest significantly pre-dates that match, though, with the player having been monitored throughout the campaign.

A deal has now been struck to bring him to the club ahead of a vital run of fixtures as the season reaches its business end.

Osei has experience in League One from a previous spell at Oldham Athletic and has also played at higher levels with both Stalybridge and Maidstone United.

South Shields joint manager Lee Picton said: "We're delighted to bring Darius into the club.

"We've had him watched a number of times this season and he also really caught our eye in our earlier encounters with Stalybridge Celtic this season.

"His skill set is extremely well-rounded and at 24 years of age, we believe we can really help him to develop even further.

"It has been quite a long process over an extended period of time to try to bring him to the club but now we eventually have we couldn't be happier.

"We're absolutely positive that he will become a fans' favourite over hopefully many seasons to come."

The club is waiting to find out whether Osei will be available to make his debut in tonight's trip to Morpeth Town.