Chatham boss Kevin Watson wants to bring eight new players to the club this summer.

Improving a squad which only just survived relegation from Ryman League Division 1 North is essential as Watson prepares to lead the club back into Division 1 South.

He said: “I’ve spoken to some players I want to bring into the club because we need to strengthen. I’m happy with how the discussions are going but it’s still early.

"For a player to move to your club, he needs to not be happy where he is, the location needs to be good and you’ve got to be able to compete financially, so a lot of elements go into it.

“I’m looking to sign most of my squad by July 25. That gives me two games to look at players and three games to prepare for the season.”

Chatham start pre-season with a home game against Tunbridge Wells on July 18.

There then follow trips to Lordswood on July 23, Cray Valley on July 25 and Brentwood on July 28 before League 2 side Dagenham & Redbridge - featuring former Chats striker Ade Yussuf - visit Maidstone Road on August 1.