Darlington expect to complete the signing of Neil Maddison this week.

There were reports at the weekend that Maddison might not be coming to Feethams after his agent said that other clubs were still interested in him, but Quakers are confident that the 31-year-old will kick off the new season at Feethams.

Director of football Luke Raine said: "As far as we're aware, nothing has changed.

"Neil is back from his holidays, and we've had no word during the time he was away that he's changed his mind.

"Just before he went, he spoke with the chairman and agreed verbally to come. If he has been in touch with his agent, then he hasn't been in touch with us.

"As far as I'm aware, he will be signing for us sometime this week."

Maddison's agent, Phil Smith, who wasn't present when Maddison spoke with Reynolds, said: "There are ongoing discussions with the club, but no deal has been formally agreed or signed at this time.

"There are several clubs who wish to speak with the player on his return from holiday."

Quakers could also make a move for Barry Conlon, who has been told he can leave York City, although the Minstermen will want a fee after he did well on loan at Colchester last season.

Meanwhile, it is understood that Conference club Scarborough, who are under new ownership, are watching the situation regarding Darlington striker John Williams, who has turned down a six month contract offer at Feethams.

l Quakers are still waiting for confirmation of their home friendly with Newcastle on August 7,

Director of football Luke Raine said: "I've been talking to Russell Cushing, the Newcastle secretary, and he's hoping to confirm the game later this week."

l Nationwide Conference bosses have welcomed the Football League's acceptance that more than one team should be promoted to the Third Division at the end of each season.

But they will look for more clarification on the matter after the League only accepted in principle the proposal to increase the current one-up, one-down system of promotion and relegation.

Conference club chairmen will debate the issue at their extraordinary general meeting at Rushden and Diamonds on Thursday.

''We have heard the response from the League to our presentation and we are pleased that they have confirmed in principle that two-up, two-down should become a reality,'' said John Moules, chief executive of the Conference.

''There are three questions that our club chairmen will seek further clarification on, in looking to progress the matter to a conclusion.

''The first is which season is the League intending to implement the proposal?

''Secondly, as our proposal is not acceptable, could the Football League make a proposal which they would find acceptable?

''Finally, if the League's proposal requires further funding and a larger contribution is not available from the FA, could the League be specific about where the extra finance will come from?''