Harrogate Town praise Carlisle United over Luke Armstrong

And the League Two club have said they are happy with the financial outcome of the deal which is taking the striker to Brunton Park.

The News & Star revealed yesterday that the deal for Armstrong will break United’s transfer record.

Neither club has commented officially on the fee but Harrogate manager Simon Weaver has said the selling club are satisfied with what United are paying.

"Obviously the transfer fee is undisclosed, and so I can't discuss the sum,” said Weaver, speaking to the Harrogate Advertiser.

"But, suffice to say, we were happy to agree a deal with Carlisle quite quickly because we were happy with the outcome. I think that says a lot.”

Harrogate were quoting £500,000 for Armstrong in the summer – a period when he was on the brink of joining Wrexham only for the deal to be dashed by the late filing of paperwork.

Simon Weaver, the Harrogate manager (Image: Barbara Abbott)

The 27-year-old has figured less regularly for the Sulphurites since then, with one eye on a January move.

While he has scored just once in that period, Weaver insisted Armstrong’s “stock [hasn’t] dropped that dramatically”, stressing he was still a proven goalscorer and was valued by Harrogate accordingly.

• WATCH: New Blues striker's goalscoring career

The Yorkshire club’s manager, meanwhile, said United’s approach to the deal was exemplary.

"It was an uncomplicated process, and I want to extend my thanks to Greg Abbott, Carlisle's head of recruitment, because he was brilliant to deal with, added Weaver.

“He came over and met me face-to-face and we had some good conversations.

"He was clear about what they could do in terms of a transfer fee and we were clear about what we wanted.

“There are always a couple of chats backwards and forwards from where you initially start a negotiation, but Carlisle didn't mess about.

“They were direct with their offer and I'm grateful to Greg for his straightforward and professional approach.

"We felt that we were destined to lose Luke. We had an agreement to that end, so we've gone ahead and planned for the future without him.

Although Armstrong cannot play for United until January 6, he will train with the Blues immediately.

Carlisle boss Paul Simpson said he wanted to ensure that was the case to avoid the risk of Armstrong being called upon by Harrogate between now and the new year – while he is still contracted to the League Two club – and running the risk of injury.