Sixth signing in Heed’s sights as next season’s squad takes shape

GATESHEAD have lined up their sixth signing of the summer as their squad for the 2017/18 National League campaign takes shape.

The Tynesiders hope to unveil another new player when manager Neil Aspin returns from holiday in midweek.

Assistant Lee Nogan has been holding the fort in Aspin’s absence and is confident of at least one new face next week.

He said: “I’ve met up with a couple of players and I’d like to think we’ll have another defender on board in the next week.”

One player on the Heed’s radar is a left-back that has Football League experience and is currently playing in Scotland. “I’ve had talks with the player. Nothing has been agreed but it’s one we’re hopeful will be developed. George Smith has moved on to Northampton Town, so left-back is a position we need to look at.” One target, Forest Green Rovers midfielder Sam Wedgbury, this week signed for National League rivals Wrexham.

“We’ve missed out on a one or two players, which happens because you are not always going to get all the players you would like.

“We’re happy with the five we’ve brought in so far. The core of the squad is in place and it’s now about adding a bit more quality and depth.”

Gateshead face a battle to prise defender Carl Magnay away from relegated Hartlepool United, while former Pools defender Dan Jones is a free agent. Nogan said: “We had Jones on loan last season from Grimsby and wanted to bring him back on loan but he opted to go out to AFC Fylde.”