Walsall have been knocked back in their pursuit of Reece Smith after Harrogate Town turned down two bids for the midfielder.
The 24-year-old has been a regular in the Sulphurites’ side since his arrival in North Yorkshire last summer, playing in all but one of their League Two matches since his switch from Maidenhead United.
Grant Begins Planning
The Saddlers have finally got themselves into gear when it comes to beginning their summer shopping, having finally appointed former Huddersfield Town boss Lee Grant to take charge at the club.
He has already identified one of his key targets, with Pete O’Rourke reporting that Walsall have submitted two bids for Reece Smith, both of which have been knocked back by Harrogate.
Simon Weaver’s side have a big task ahead of them in their own market dealings following relegation to the National League, with 17 players contracted to the club following the publication of their released list.
They have already kicked into action, with three incomings confirmed in the form of Ciaran McGuckin, Will McGowan and Bailey Hobson.
Grant is yet to make any official moves, but has sanctioned the exit of defender Connor Barrett, who has been sold to League One side Wigan Athletic.
Walsall Need Attacking Flair
There was a noticeable lack of firepower in Walsall’s efforts last season, with the Saddlers scoring just shy of 20 goals fewer between their playoff-contending campaign and this one, which ended in a distant midtable finish.
Lee Grant comes to the Bescot Stadium having somewhat failed at Huddersfield Town, but showed some promise during his early days, when attacking midfielder Leo Castledine thrived and put the Terriers firmly in the promotion conversation.
Now, he will be looking for someone which can fill a similar role for his new Saddlers side, and that could be Reece Smith, who was a bright spot in Harrogate’s dire season which ended in relegation.
While his numbers were not very impressive, with just two goals and five assists to his name, the underlying stats highlighted Smith as a brilliant chance creator and creative outlet, and with the right striker in front of him, he could flourish.
Whether Grant can also find an adequate replacement to the Bromley-linked Daniel Kanu remains to be seen, but finding a proven goalscorer to partner Aaron Pressley and Smith should they find a deal with Harrogate could be a trio which propels them to a place in League One.
