OWNER Huw Jenkins says Newport County AFC have “a number of signings agreed” before the transfer window opens on Friday, while discussions with the Dragons over a new lease to play at Rodney Parade are ongoing.

In a message to fans, Jenkins appealed for patience as he takes charge of player recruitment this summer.

And he revealed his desire to lower the age of the playing squad, perhaps explaining why 33-year-old club stalwart Scot Bennett was allowed to leave the club this month.

“Recruitment is obviously a key factor at every football club, and it is critical that the balance of players within the squad is right,” said Jenkins.

“It’s crucial that the decisions we make fit within the club’s medium-term ambitions where age, experience, talent and ambition are considered carefully before any player comes in or goes out.

“We need to be brave and bring the age of the squad down significantly. We need to take a chance on younger players who may not have a wealth of experience but are hungry to take their chance and carve out a successful career in the professional game – starting with Newport.

“We already have a number of signings agreed, but obviously we can’t confirm most things until the window opens on June 14,” added the former Swansea City chairman.

“I would like to think that the experience I’ve gained working across various roles within football puts me in a good position to take the lead not only in setting up and running the club’s football recruitment, but also overseeing other aspects of the club’s operations off the field.”

South Wales Argus: Huw Jenkins wants to lower the age of the squad at County.Huw Jenkins wants to lower the age of the squad at County. (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

Jenkins continued: “I want to change the whole atmosphere and culture within the club. We need to be more positive, show far more belief and refuse to settle for mediocrity.

“My aim is to create a football club that has a strong identity, ambition, and a renewed expectation to succeed. We want the footballing fraternity to start talking about Newport County on a regular basis – and for all the right reasons.”

One pressing issue for the Exiles is agreeing a new lease to stay at Rodney Parade.

“We are continuing our discussions with the Dragons, our landlords and partners at Rodney Parade, over a new 10-year lease which must be in place under EFL rules by season 2025-2026,” explained Jenkins.

“We both need each other if professional sport is to be successful in Newport, a must for the city, and we hope to give you some more news soon as it will be a major milestone for the club to secure its long-term future.”