Walsall FC track six new players

New-boy Dean Holden today revealed he thrashed out his own move to Walsall – as the club targeted six more signings.

The defender penned a one-year deal yesterday after being impressed by boss Dean Smith's vision for the Saddlers.

Holden does not have an agent and met with Smith for talks to secure a move and provide a defensive boost after a summer exodus.

"I don't have an agent this year so I came along and spent an hour talking with the management team. They spoke very well and really sold the club to me," said Holden, who joined after the Saddlers re-signed Florent Cuvelier on loan from Stoke yesterday.

"I feel it was important for them to see me in person and for me to be able to get across what kind of character I am. Equally, it was beneficial for me to get an insight into them and their ideas.

"I'm buzzing to have signed this deal and now I can't wait to get down to work. There are a lot of young lads here and hopefully I can play my part in helping them develop.

"I will bring experience, know-how and desire to the team. I'm a winner and the attitude and spirit in the camp is excellent."

Holden became the third summer signing after Cuvelier and Ashley Hemmings with chief executive Stefan Gamble telling supporters at a fans' forum last night the club are chasing more.

Gamble insisted all extra money raised from transfers and TV will be given to Smith, with the Saddlers in talks with Sheffield United over compensation for Darryl Westlake.

"The manager wants another five or six more signings before the first competitive game of the season," he said.

"Everything generated from football will go back into the manager's budget and it is entirely up to him what he does with it.

"In his office the manager has a whiteboard with his formation, the gaps and a list of names."

Smith moved for Holden after Manny Smith, Mat Sadler and Lee Beevers all rejected new deals.

Oliver Lancashire was released and Westlake is set to join the Blades. Holden, 32, will make his debut in next week's friendly at Telford.