Peter Beagrie could be set for a return to the North-East with Darlington, writes Lee Hall.

Quakers have been alerted by the possible availability of the Scunthorpe United playmaker, who is stalling on a new a deal at Glanford Park.

The 38-year-old is keeping his options open, but has admitted he would relish the opportunity to end his career in the region.

Iron boss Brian Laws this week revealed Middlesbrough-born Beagrie has yet to commit his future to the club.

Hodgson has already began planning for next season with Sam Russell, Dean Windass and Stephen Thomas all expected to sign for the club.

And the arrival of Beagrie - named in last season's PFA team of the year and with over 600 career appearances - would provide a wealth of experience to a relatively young Quakers squad.

Cambridge expect to complete the signing of Quakers midfielder Ashley Nicholls next month. The 22-year-old has been offered a two-year contract.

He said: "It's been going really well, especially with the new manager coming in.

"I also think being at home has helped me a lot and that has shown on the pitch."

* Welsh champions Rhyl expect to learn next week if they have a realistic chance of signing Paul Gascoigne.

Gascoigne has held talks with Rhyl owner Peter Parry about joining the North Wales outfit and given an indication he would like to join them.

The former England star is currently in Italy and has been without a club since returning home from an ill-fated stint in China.

Now 34, Gascoigne would be able to play in the Champions League for the first time should he complete the deal with Rhyl, albeit coming in during the first qualifying stage in July.

''He is keen and we are keen,'' confirmed Parry. ''There is no more to say than that.

''I have spoken to Paul a few times and we will meet with him again next week and take it from there.

''This is not a publicity stunt and it is not about money. We are an ambitious club and are looking to improve. These talks are a sign of that.''

Read more about the Quakers here.