Livingston close to signings but Alan Forrest likely to leave

David Martindale is close to sealing three new signings for next season but will take his time to complete Livingston’s squad building this summer.

But in-demand forward Alan Forrest is expected to agree a move away from the Tony Macaroni Arena as his contract nears its end.

Martindale has widened his search for players and has agreed deals with two players based overseas, as well as one in the UK, to bolster his team for the 2022/23 Scottish Premiership campaign.

The overseas players require Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) to get work permits but Martindale is confident the deals will go through.

And after a hectic summer of 2021 where he lost backroom staff as well as 15 first team players, the Livingston boss is looking forward to a more controlled transfer window this time around.

Martindale said: “I can’t say too much at this point but we have got three boys on pre-contracts who are coming in.

“Two need GBE and one is based here but they are all more or less done.

“I will be looking for another four players in offensive positions but I can take my time with that. We have a lot of players earmarked.

“I want three of four bits of quality in attack – a 7, a 9 and an 11, plus maybe a 10. Someone who can play between the lines.

“We do have time to do that this year because last year it felt a little bit rushed at times.

“I have tweaked how I am going to do the recruitment this year. Last year I based it solely on the UK but this time I have looked further afield.

“We have 95% of the starting eleven who are going to be here next season.

“So we have one eye on next year but we still have to complete our short-term objectives which is picking up three points on a Saturday and finishing as high up the league as possible.”

As Livingston chase a seventh place finish Martindale is now resigned to losing attacker Alan Forrest who has reportedly drawn interest from Hearts and Dundee United.

The 25-year-old joined from Ayr United in 2020 and has scored 17 goals in 77 appearances in West Lothian.

He can leave Livingston this summer under freedom of contract.

Martindale said: “It is no secret there are a couple of clubs in for him.

“I have given Alan my thoughts on that and obviously I would love to keep Alan at the football club but I am realistic enough to know when a big club comes calling.

“There are financial rewards but also playing at a fantastic stadium and great training facilities so I think you’ve got to go and shake the player’s hand and move him on.

“I don’t think he has made his mind up 100% but I am pretty sure he is not going to be at Livingston Football Club next year.”