Dean Keates: Walsall closing in on a signing

The Saddlers travel to take on Rochdale today as they look to continue their unbeaten start to the new campaign.

But despite some outstanding performances, the squad is still light on numbers – with a centre-back to provide competition for Jon Guthrie and Jack Fitzwater the number one priority.

And Keates revealed he is in talks with one player who he believes has the right character to step into a changing room full of confidence.

“There will be additions to the squad,” the boss said.

“We have got a week. I’m in conversation with one and I’m hopeful that this weekend, or early next week, he’ll be one that we bring in.

“There may be two arrivals. I do have another possibility. But there will definitely be one.

“I’ve got my list of targets of people I want to add but it’s about getting the right personalities.

“There is a great togetherness in the dressing room and you don’t want to throw someone in there who is going to upset that balance.

“But if I can get this player, he will be a great addition to the squad and the football club.”

The window for loan signings closes on Friday and reopens in January. However, all Football League clubs can still bring in free agents through to March.

Keates though says it’s imperative he does his home work on any potential recruit.

“Character is the biggest thing for me,” the boss added.

“First and foremost it’s about their personality and what they are like from Monday through to Friday.

“I want to know how they apply themselves around the club and in the changing room.

“You have to do your due diligence, I make phone calls, I speak to people who have worked with the players.

“And I have spoken to players who I know and whose opinions I trust.

“You can do lots of little things to make sure the people you bring in have the right character for the football club.”