Bees make meal of McDonald deal

8:00am Friday 4th July 2008

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Southend striker Charlie MacDonald's protracted move to Brentford is far from a done deal after Bees boss Andy Scott admitted there was still work to be done.

The Shrimpers accepted an improved third approach for the 27-year-old on Monday, but Scott is yet to pin down the former Ebbsafleet Town forward as his side began pre-season training this week.

And he thinks there is still work to do to add to the roster with only seven days to go until the four week friendly programme kicks off with a home clash with Ipswich Town next Friday.

"We have had an offer accepted by there are still several things all three parties need to agree on to make the deal happen," he said.

"The good thing is the player wants to come here. We've agreed the deal in principle, there are just one or two small things that need to be ironed out.

"The length of time that takes is as long as a piece of string, really. It could be tomorrow or it could be next week."

The Griffin Park manager has so far landed seven signings this summer after capturing midfielder Marvin Williams from League One Yeovil Town last week.

Williams, 20, signed a one-year deal with the club on Monday and is looking to re-launch his career after an injury plagued campaign with the Glovers last season, having initially impressed at Millwall.

Scott is still hunting a replacement for departed skipper Matt Heywood, but admits he is happy to have landed his first choice transfer targets this summer - so far.

"We are still speaking with a few players and being kept aware of the situation with regard to a knew centre back, he added.

"I'm very conscious of the fact we have a good spirit and nucleus to the squad and it is important we get the right people to compliment that. I will not just sign anyone.

"I'm very, very pleased with the signings so far. They were all my first choice in the positions I wanted to fill.

"I'd love to have the team settled, have loads more players and lots more money to spend.

"But we are not in the Premier League, this is League Two and we are doing very well with what we have got."