MAGPIES’ boss Mark Jermyn has remained tight-lipped over his early transfer dealings as he steps up his hunt for young and exciting talent.

He is scouting far and wide for new players but was closer to home on Monday as he saw a supporters’ team take on the staff and directors at the Avenue.

On the scoresheet for the fans was Tom Blair, a youngster making a name for himself at Bridport.

Asked by Echosport about Blair, Jermyn replied: “It is a name that has been mentioned to us and he is someone we would like to have a chat with in the next couple of weeks.

“He is only 17 and anybody in the local area should realise that we are the club who is pushing the youth.

“Anybody of Tom’s age should be gravitating towards Dorchester because they will have the best opportunity to play here than with anyone else.”

Along with Blair, the manager is also speaking to a number of other targets.

“We’re adding to our shortlist all the time. It’s just a case of getting hold of people and making sure we can work it around the budget.

“We’ve got quite a few promising players on the radar and, hopefully if we can sign them, it will put us in a stronger position.

“It’s just about prising them away from their clubs, which is a challenge in itself.”