Macaulay Langstaff admits it was "really tough" to leave Gateshead but says he is "absolutely buzzing" about his move to Notts County.
The Magpies wasted little time in snapping up the prolific striker following their National League play-off exit. Langstaff scored 32 goals during the 2021-22 season for Gateshead as they won the National League North title.
He was also named the division's player of the season, and said: “The last two years have been the most enjoyable I’ve ever had playing football. Leaving Gateshead is really tough – I’ve made friends for life there and I’m really close to the management staff and the people at the top of the club.
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“It’s a brilliant club and I’m a Gateshead fan now – apart from when we play them next season, of course! I’m really rooting for them.”
As for joining Notts, Langstaff told the club's official website: “I’m absolutely buzzing to sign for such a big club.
“I came and visited recently for the very first time and, once I’d seen the facilities and spoken to people about the way they want to play, I realised it was somewhere that suits me down to the ground.
“There was interest from elsewhere but Notts stood out to me straightaway.
“Playing in front of big crowds really excites me. I like the idea of scoring in front of plenty of fans and impressing people. I can’t wait to get started.”
Langstaff is hoping he can replicate his recent form in front of goal in non-League's top flight for the Magpies.
“Last season shows that I can score plenty of goals and play well consistently,” he added. “I believe I’ll take that into the new campaign and continue improving in all areas of my game.
“I have to say a big thank you to the manager and his assistant at Gateshead, who were absolutely brilliant with me over the last two years and brought me on leaps and bounds.
“The major improvement was in my mentality – they gave me confidence and self-belief. Physically I improved, too, and tactically the club got the best out of me. They were the ingredients for my success.”
Langstaff's arrival follows on from the signing of right wing-back Tobi Adebayo-Rowling. Meanwhile, forward Elisha Sam has left the club.
Notts are also looking for a new manager after Ian Burchnall took the Forest Green Rovers job. It is being reported that the Magpies could go back to Gateshead for player-manager Mike Williamson.
Our colleagues at ChronicleLive report: "Williamson has already held preliminary talks with Hartlepool United, where he is also on short odds with the bookmakers. Gateshead remain optimistic he will remain in charge at the International Stadium, but if Notts County come calling it will be a tough one to turn down."
