Gateshead lose top gun Macaulay Langstaff to Notts County - and Mike Williamson could follow

Gateshead have lost star striker Macaulay Langstaff to Vanarama National League rivals Notts County - and Mike Williamson could follow. The Meadow Lane outfit could also come in for Tynesiders player-manager Williamson in what would be a double blow for the Heed.

Williamson is one of the hot tips to take over at Notts County, who are desperate to return to the Football League. The 38-year-old has just returned from holiday after guiding Gateshead to the National League North title.

Teessider Langstaff, meanwhile, had a clause put in the new and improved contract he signed during last season meaning he could move on for just £50,000. Langstaff plundered 32 goals for the Heed in 2021/22, 28 of those in the league, as he secured the Conference North Golden Boot.

He was also voted the league's Player of the Year and his partnership with Cedwyn Scott produced 58 goals That saw Gateshead romp to the title and promotion back to the National League after a three-year absence.

Langstaff's wages at Notts County will be a significant hike on what he was on at Gateshead and he has also been handed the security of a three-year contract. Although in the same league County are one of the biggest clubs in the division with a rich Football League history.

They have lost out in the play-offs in each of the last two years and were interested in Langstaff before manager Ian Burchnall left for Forest Green Rovers. The Board of directors have gone ahead with the signing, despite not having a new manager in place.

A statement from the Notts Board said: "Macaulay possesses great pace, excellent movement and, most importantly, a genuine goal threat. His ability to attack spaces behind opposition defences creates chances from nothing.

"He has