Darlington Football Club are today anxiously waiting for the Home Office to give the go-ahead for an audacious bid to sign Colombian World Cup star Faustino Asprilla.

Flamboyant club chairman George Reynolds shocked the football world at the weekend when he signed former Newcastle striker Asprilla - subject to the South American star obtaining a work permit.

Asprilla does not meet the Home Office's criteria for a permit, having figured in only five of his country's last 14 competitive matches.

But the guidelines also state applications will be considered where the club provides evidence that the player is of "the highest calibre".

There is an added urgency because of the new transfer deadline rules. If the official rubber-stamp is not given by Friday, the Third Division club may have to wait until January before being able to complete the transfer.

Mr Reynolds, who says he has become a firm friend of the Colombian, remains convinced he will get his man.

"We're just waiting for word coming through from the Home Office. Everything's under way and I've done all I can really," he said.

"I don't think we'll have any trouble. We've got four days to fight it out, but whatever happens he will be signing for Darlington."

Asprilla, known as Tino, has been staying at Mr Reynolds' luxury home in Weardale, County Durham and had lunch with the chairman yesterday.

His girlfriend and childhood friends from Colombia have travelled to the North-East with him.

Quakers fans are still stunned by the extraordinary signing and are expected to boost the gate at Feethams for Darlington's game against Carlisle United tonight, hoping to catch a glimpse of the maverick striker who is expected to be watching.

Scott Thornberry, who runs the darlo uncovered website, said: "Everybody still can't take it in - it's amazing. I've criticised George in the past but this changes things.

"He's shown his ambition on the playing side and we've got to give him credit if it comes off.

"The reaction on the message board has been very positive. We've had fans from Newcastle saying it's brilliant and people from other clubs in the Third Division saying they can't wait to see him, although obviously the Hartlepool fans aren't that impressed."