JOSH HEATON is on the verge of leaving Darlington and completing a move to St Mirren, which should be confirmed later today.

The giant defender has travelled north of the border to the Scottish Premiership club to undergo a medical and finalise his move, which is understood to be earning Quakers a five-figure fee, plus add-ons.

Several clubs were interested in the former Preston North End youngster, who only signed for Darlington in November following a brief spell with Ramsbottom United.

Heaton was Tommy Wright’s first signing and he quickly became a first-choice, with scouts representing clubs from across the country regularly in attendance at Blackwell Meadows.

Middlesbrough are known to have lodged an interest, while Fulham and Aston Villa also watched him towards the end of last season.

Earlier this month the 21-year-old trained with the V9 Academy – a showcase for the best young talent in non-league – where St Mirren boss Alan Stubbs is among the coaches.

Stubbs’ club are understood to have had a bid accepted late on Tuesday evening, allowing 6ft 6in Heaton to discuss personal terms with the Paisley club.

He will become the 12th player to leave Darlington this summer, but manager Wright already has a replacement lined up.

The new signing is to be announced once Heaton’s move has been rubber-stamped.