AFC Wimbledon boss Neal Ardley is keeping his cards close to his chest and staying patient in his hunt for new talent.

While the club have actively targeted at least two players, Ardley is having to wait on what the players’ club do first before making his move.

Moreover, as the boss attempts to raise the level of his talent pool, he is entering a new field of wheeling and dealing – one that very much needs a poker face and a determination not to blink first.

The background work has been done, and the Dons management team know the profile of the players they believe will take them to the next level.

Their only problem is getting those players.

Ardley said: “I am trying to raise our talent level of players. I think I have done that every year.

AFC Wimbledon: Players back fundraising drive for War Child and the Dons Foundation

AFC Wimbledon: The Beast signs on with an apology to the Dons faithful

“Last season we really hit some heights and this season I am trying to strengthen the whole team and not just the centre forward.

“Sometimes when you go in for players above your level you have to learn to sit tight and be more patient because there is more money and the agents are involved more.

“Other clubs are after them because they are sought after players – you have to take your time.

“You might not get them, but if you take your time and get them, then you could have a team that can be successful in this league.”

He added: “We have done our ground work and we have spoken to various people who fit the profile we wanted.

“In some cases it is quite brutal out there in terms of the money being banded about – it is ridiculous and at times over the odds.

“We decided we were not going to play that game in a couple of cases.

“We have pursued one or two very hard, they are on their holidays at the moment so they’re in the balance.”