THREE more signings could arrive at Blundell Park before the new campaign kicks off.
The Grimsby Town squad has already been bolstered by five arrivals over the summer – with Paul Bignot the latest addition this week.
The defender joins Scott Neilson, Scott Kerr, Paddy McLaughlin and Alex Rodman at the club.
And, with goalkeeper Jake Turner and centre-half Chris Doig still on trial, another new defender would complete the 2013/14 line-up.
As usual, though, Paul Hurst and Rob Scott are keeping their cards close to their chest over other targets.
But Hurst does admit that their business will be done sooner rather than later – unlike last year when Nathan Pond arrived on the eve of the season.
"It's no secret that we'd like another couple in – maybe three," said Hurst.
"I don't think we'll be bringing anyone in last minute like we did with Pondy, though.
"We had that last year, and I'd agree that it probably wasn't his best game for us on the opening day at Southport.
"Any work that you've done previous with the back-four doesn't totally go out of the window, but one of the key personnel wasn't there, so it's not ideal."
Former Nottingham Forest defender Doig has played in all five of the Mariners' pre-season friendlies, while Turner is set for another chance tomorrow evening against Hull City.
"Doigy is an ongoing situation," said Hurst. "Maybe we could look at his pace, but he puts himself in good positions where he reduces the amount of times he's going to get beaten.
"I thought he played well on Tuesday and he's comfortable on the ball if we are trying to play out from the back.
"I think he's enjoying it and we're still pleased with what we're seeing, so fingers-crossed for both parties that eventually we'll be able to sort something out."
He added: "Jake was on the bench on Tuesday and we'll have a look at him again tomorrow.
"We took him along against Bradford because he knows his surroundings now ahead of his outing against Hull."
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