Lewes have clinched the signing of Eastbourne Borough striker Matt Allen.

The clubs have agreed a four-figure deal for the wantaway frontman and Allen will put pen-to-paper on a two-year contract at the Dripping Pan tomorrow.

The Rooks immediately declared their interest in Allen when he asked to go on the transfer list at Priory Lane four weeks ago.

There was interest from other clubs, including Bognor, Burgess Hill and Hailsham Town but Lewes finally agreed terms with Borough yesterday.

The exact transfer fee has not been revealed but Lewes say they are paying "more or less the asking price", which was believed to be £2,500.

Allen, who started at Saltdean, had a previous spell at Lewes when manager Jimmy Quinn first took over in 1998 but he has really made his name with Eastbourne Borough, scoring 98 goals in 184 appearances.

It is the first time Lewes have paid a transfer fee for a player and chairman Terry Parris believes it shows the ambition of the club.

Parris said: "It is another step for the club to go out and buy a player and to support Jimmy in what he is trying to do.

"Our aim is to get promoted to the premier division this year. The directors feel it is important to do what we can to achieve this.

"We are in three cups and are well placed in the league. This is an important signing with regard to the club's future.

"We are delighted we are now in a position to attract better players because of our success."

Allen could make his debut for Lewes at home to Chertsey Town in Ryman League division one south on Saturday.

Quinn said: "I am delighted to get a player of Matt's quality. He is a proven goalscorer and there are only a few of them about in Sussex.

"He has done it at a good standard and I hope he will carry it on with us.

"He is a bit different to what we have got. He is a bit pacy.

"Some people will say we are spending money but it is a sign of the ambition of the club that they are prepared to do it for the right players."