Dennis Wise has reacted to the loss of two key players this week by targeting upto four new arrivals during the upcoming January transfer window. After losing stand-in skipper Jonathan Douglas to a long-term knee injury, the boss was dealt a further blow on discovering that central defender Rui Marques could be unavailable for six weeks, as a result of being called up by Angola for next months African Cup of Nations in Ghana.
Top of Wise's wish list is believed to be Bolton Wanderers defender Lubo Michalik, who made seven appearances for United on loan last season. The Slovakian made a big impression during what was a difficult time for the club. 'Everyone knows that someone I've been chasing for a long time is Lubo. It would be nice if we could make it happen,' said Wise. 'I've kept an eye on him, and you know how much we liked him last year. He did very well for us and we missed him when he went back. He's young, he's willing to learn, and he's got all the attributes you look for.'
'We'd like to bring in three or four players, and by that I mean go and buy them - bring them in for the long term. I'm not saying an 18 or 19 year old. I'm saying a player of 24 or 25 who's got games under his belt and a bit of experience. That's what we're looking for.'
The club have also lined up a deal for Finnish winger Sebastian Sorsa, who is available on a free transfer once his contract with HJK Helsinki expires at the end of this month. The 23 year old has represented Finland at under-21 level and has also featured for his current club in the UEFA Cup. Wise has been impressed by what he has seen of the youngster. 'We've spoken to him, he's a free transfer and won't cost anything. He caught our eye and did very well so we're looking to bring him in. He plays on the wing and he's quick with a lot of ability as well. He's going to give a bit of competition.'
