Latics close in on sixth signing. . .

Dave Penney: still on the trail of new players

And Penney eyes more summer moves

ATHLETIC were today hoping to complete a sixth summer signing on the day their players reported back for the start of pre-season training.

Manager Dave Penney (pictured) said negotiations were at an advanced stage, but the player’s identity has yet to be revealed.

Penney’s only hint was the deal involves a player still contracted to a club and it involves a “small transfer fee.”

“We are just about there and we are hoping the transfer will be completed today,” explained Penney.

Athletic have been linked with Glasgow Rangers midfield man Dean Furman, who spent last season on loan at Bradford City. Rangers are willing to allow the under-contract Furman to leave, but want compensation.

Penney is still hoping to bring in another four players before the new campaign kicks off.

The Athletic manager has so far captured Rob Purdie, Jon Worthington, Joe Jacobson, Pawel Abbott and re-signed Sean Gregan less than two months after he was released for financial reasons.

Penney added the time between now and August 8, when Athletic play Stockport County in their opening fixture, will be crucial to the campaign.

He explained: “In the next six weeks we will be working to build up stamina to last for the next nine or 10 months.

“It is also important that players stay fit and we will be taking care that nobody gets injured and has to miss training.”

Dutch defender Stefan Stam, released by Athletic in May, has signed for League One rivals Yeovil after agreeing a two-year deal with the Glovers.

But Stam’s former Athletic team-mate Paul Warne has left Huish Park after he failed to agree terms for a new contract.


ATHLETIC have switched dates for three of their fixtures for the new season.

The home game against Hartlepool has been brought forward to Friday, September 4 because of an England international 24 hours later (kick-off 7.45pm).

The home fixture against Huddersfield has been put back a day to Sunday, November 1 and the return at the Galpharm Stadium also delayed by a day from Easter Monday to Tuesday, April 6 (kick-off 7.45pm).