Walsall close in on new signings
Walsall manager Chris Hutchings is closing in on new signings as he starts to mould his side.
The Saddlers boss was buoyed by the news Clayton Ince, Chris Palmer, Rene Gilmartin, Netan Sansara and Manny Smith all agreed new contracts on Monday.
But Jabo Ibehre has joined MK Dons and Sofiene Zaaboub is still to commit to the club.
Hutchings is now making progress in the transfer market after speaking to the players he wants, although he will have to stick within the Saddlers' strict budget.
He said: "I have been in touch with a lot of players about joining us and we have some targets in mind.
"I have been honest with them and told them the scenario. There are some very attractive targets we can go for, but the question is whether we can afford them."
The Walsall manager realises his targets will want to assess their options to secure them the best deal, just as his out-of-contract players did.
He said: "All the players I've spoken to are leaving their options open as long as possible.
"It's about making them aware of our interest and we have been working behind the scenes.
"It's difficult, but it's the same for all clubs."
Following the departure of Ibehre and the release of Michael Ricketts, Hutchings will make signing a striker his top priority.
He has just Troy Deeney, Alex Nicholls and teenage duo Will Grigg and Josh Craddock as striking options.
He will also be looking to net a defender as only Manny Smith, Anthony Gerrard and Rhys Weston are equipped to play in the centre.
