Frew have been chasing the striker all summer but saw their initial offer booted into touch by Vale who were desperate to keep their prize asset.

A disappointed Vale boss, Hugh Hamill, told Sportscene: “He was our top scorer — I think he scored 22 goals last season — so I didn’t want him to go but they are in a higher league than us and they play closer to his house so it is just one of those things.

“We did get a fee so that is something but I would rather have the player than the fee.” Understandably, the noises coming from Renfrew were a lot more positive after securing the man they believe can spearhead their attack.

Renfrew manager Colin Clark said: “It was brutal trying to get Scott in and we have had to pay a fee, but hopefully all the hard work is worth it and he can score a few goals for us this season.” Vale’s season starts tomorrow (Wednesday) against Port Glasgow in the Sectional League Cup and Hamill is hoping to use the competition to ensure his team are fit and ready for the start of the league campaign.

He added: “Kenny Wilson and Lee McGeachy are injured and Adam Monaghan is suspended but that gives other players the chance to come in and stake a claim for a start in the league games.”