The Express & Star is today following UTS and the Hartlepool local papers by linking Walsall with Chris Westwood.

We broke the story of Merson’s interest in the Dudley born ex Wolves central defender last Monday, but the trail seemed to have gone quiet, following the signing of Everton youngster Danny Fox, who can play centre back as well as full back. The Star today, however, says that Paul Merson is indeed interested in aquiring the Hartlepool stopper.

The paper says that all three new defensive signings lack experience which “Merson is hoping Westwood will bring to the back four following the departure of Neil Emblen”.

“The Walsall boss also has Ian Roper and Julian Bennett at his disposal, but Westwood’s potential arrival would help Merson protect his young defenders from burn-out”.

“Westwood, who made five senior appearances for Wolves after coming through the Molineux ranks, will also bring leadership skills to the Walsall side having captained Hartlepool in the past”.