BROMSGROVE Sporting boss Paul Smith is closing in on new signings as he steps up his squad rebuilding plans.

The Rouslers manager confirmed he was in talks with seven new faces and was hopeful of tying up new additions by next week.

While he was tight-lipped about his targets, a prolific striker is his top priority.

Experienced Alvechurch striker Karl Edwards, who scored 27 goals last season, Chelmsley Town’s Chris Lloyd and Lichfield’s Tony Clarke are rumoured to be interesting the club.

Church duo Mark Smith and Sam Williams are also thought to be on Sporting’s wishlist this summer.

Sporting have also secured deals with 10 of last season’s squad, with Chris Jay, Simon Fitter, Aaron Roberts, Craig Jones, Jack Wilson, Will Tibbetts, Nathan Walker, Sam Wills, Sean Brain and Luke Dugmore all committing their futures to the club.

Kyle Turner looks set to sign for Nuneaton Griff or Atherstone.

However, it looks as though one last season’s top performers Reece Hewitt is set to sign for Southern League Premier outfit Redditch United, while midfield enforcer Liam Spink has been offered a deal by the Reds.

Smith said: “I have been very busy over the last few weeks.

“I am lucky that I run my own business and I have a very understanding partner because I have spent a lot of time talking to players.

“We have secured a good proportion of last season’s squad and I am also in talks with (potential) new faces and hopefully I can reveal more details when they sign.

“It looks as though Reece (Hewitt) is signing for Redditch after sorting out some issues with his work.

“He is part of a motorway repair crew and works five-and-a-half days a week but I believe he’s managed to resolve the issue.

“Reece is a very talented player and has become a good friend and I wish him the best of luck.

“I also don’t want to lose him or Liam but I can understand the attraction of playing in the Southern League Premier. Liam’s going to make his decision by the end of the week.”

Smith is also close to finalising his back room staff. After the departure of long-time assistants Nick Smith and Martin Sockett two weeks ago, the manager conducted an intensive interview process.

Ex-player Brendan Kelly and former Stafford Town boss Adam Cunningham have been brought in as Smith’s assistants.

Meanwhile, the club are closing in on a new physio because of Bradley Thomas’ work commitments.

“Martin has had a promotion at work and his based in Northamptonshire while Nick just wanted a break from the game,” said Smith.

“It was a bombshell to lose them but Adam and Brendan are young and enthusiastic and have already thrown themselves into the role.”