On the day Darlington Football Club finally confirmed Mick Tait as their new manager, officials were last night locked in talks with defender Stuart Whitehead over a new deal.

Tait was yesterday unveiled as Quakers' new boss, eight months after taking temporary charge of team affairs following Tommy Taylor's departure.

And Whitehead, who was brought to the club by Taylor on the recommendation of Tait from Carlisle in October, could deliver an answer to Quakers later today after discussing their latest offer with his agent Richard Cody late last night.

Cody met with chairman George Reynolds and Tait yesterday and the signs are that former Carlisle man Whitehead will put pen to paper on a new two-year deal.

The 25-year-old has formed a solid partnership with skipper Craig Liddle at the heart of the Quakers defence since arriving on a short-term deal until the end of the season.

Reynolds last night remained confident that a deal could be struck.

"We've made an offer which we think is fair and hopefully we can come to an agreement shortly," he said.

"He has to discuss one or two things with his agent, but as a whole negotiations have gone well."

Tait, meanwhile, revealed his delight at landing the managerial hotseat on a permanent basis.

The former Hartlepool boss made no secret of his desire to succeed Taylor and staked his claim in the best possible way when he suffered just one defeat in his opening 12 games as caretaker manager.

"I've always treated the job as if it was mine anyway but obviously it's very pleasing that the chairman has so much faith in me," said Tait.

"I've loved every minute of it and I know it's going to be tough but I'm looking forward to it."

Tait has also revealed he is still hopeful of resurrecting a deal for released Leeds winger Tom Newey.

The 20-year-old enjoyed a successful loan spell with Quakers at the end of last season and Tait has not given up hope of landing the youngster, who failed to agree terms on a move only three weeks ago.

"Tom has indicated that he is still interested in a move," said Tait. "He felt he needed some more time to weigh up his options but he thoroughly enjoyed his time here and there's still a good chance of getting him."