Jon Whitney hopeful for Walsall signing
Walsall boss Jon Whitney says he is hopeful of adding at least one player to his squad next week.
The 46-year-old has been busy scouting players and talking to potential targets ever since the League One season ended three weeks ago.
Whitney recently revealed talks are progressing well with a new goalkeeper – with current number one Neil Etheridge expected to leave the Banks's Stadium this summer.
And the boss says he is hopeful Walsall can make their first signing of the close season in the next seven to 10 days.
"We are still in negotiations with a couple of players," the former Hull City defender said.
"I am very hopeful we can get one of those if not two over the line in the next week.
"Talks are ongoing but I am hoping we will have some really positive news in the next week."
Despite negotiations with potential signings progressing well, Whitney still moved to remind fans deals often take time to finalise.
"It is a time thing and sometimes you have to be patient - as frustrating as that can be," the boss continued.
"Most players are under contract until June 30. But you can still negotiate now and do deals.
"Things never really start to pick until June time when the play-offs have finished.
"And then the ball really starts to pick up and gather a bit of momentum. But I am trying to get one or two over the line in the next week."
Whitney revealed talks are also progressing well the Saddlers players whose contracts expire next month.
Skipper Adam Chambers, goalkeeper Liam Roberts, defender Matt Preston and youngsters Milan Butterfield and Rory Oliver have all been offered the chance to extend their stay at the Banks's Stadium.
"We are also continuing to talk to the players we have offered new contacts to as well," Whitney added.
"Some of them are getting close to finalisation now. So we should have some good news on that in the not-to-distant future as well."
