Darlington are delighted to announce the signing of striker Aidan Rutledge on a two-year deal from Gateshead, for an undisclosed fee.

The 24-year-old forward has a prolific goalscoring record and is a familiar face to Darlington fans, having enjoyed a successful loan spell at Blackwell Meadows during the 2023/24 season — scoring twice in just four starts. He also found the net against the Quakers last season while playing for Spennymoor Town.

Aidan began his career at Gateshead Leam before moving to Birtley Town, where his goalscoring instincts saw him net an incredible 61 goals in 43 appearances, helping the club to promotion into Northern League Division One.

In 2023, his form earned him a move to his hometown club Gateshead. At the start of the 2023/24 season, he joined Scarborough Athletic on loan, scoring nine goals in 23 games. Gateshead then recalled him and loaned him to Darlington, where he made six appearances, scoring twice — including a crucial goal in the victory over Farsley Celtic that secured the club’s National League North survival.

For the 2024/25 season, he was again loaned out; first to South Shields, before joining Spennymoor Town on loan for the second half of the season. He enjoyed a successful spell there, playing a key role in helping them reach the FA Trophy Final. He came on as a sub in the final against Aldershot at Wembley.

Manager Steve Watson said: "I’m delighted to have Aidan here on a two-year contract. I believe he’s one of the best strikers at this level and is only just getting started. His numbers per game stand up against anyone’s, and he can score all types of goals. Having helped us greatly when we stayed up, I’m sure our terrific fans will be just as pleased as myself and Terry are to make Aidan a Darlo player."

The signing is subject to FA and National League approval.

Welcome back Aidan — we can’t wait to see you in action next season.