Richard Money heralded the signing of Allan Picken and is confident he will swiftly become a cult hero among Walsall supporters.
The strapping centre-half arrives in England this morning and will come into contention for Saturday's match at Rochdale.
The Saddlers have paid Newcastle United Jets an undisclosed sum to lure the 24-year-old to the Bescot on a two-year contract and Money's connections in Australia were critical to securing the deal.
"There were two clubs in League One who wanted him on trial, but I had no hesitation in signing him," Money said. "He is a very exciting player for this club and I think he can become a cult hero.
"Once he has acclimatised to the pace of the English game, I am sure he will be an asset, as he is very powerful in both boxes.
"He came to England as a young boy and trained with Sunderland under Peter Reid. He has benefited from that experience and was a resounding success in the A League in Australia.
"I know the boy well and he is extremely fit. He used to lay concrete for a living, so that shows you what sort of character he has."
With Chris Westwood and Ian Roper suspended for the match at Spotland, fitness permitting, Picken could make his debut at Rochdale.
However, Money intimated that the transfer activity wasn't yet completed at the Bescot.
"We are always looking to improve and I would like to bring in one more attacking player," Money said.
"We are making progress and there is a chance he could be here before Saturday.
"The make-up of this group of players is good, but he would give us that extra bit of spice."
* Brighton and Hove Albion manager Mark McGhee has eased his defensive problems by agreeing the loan signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers 20-year-old Keith Lowe.
The former Molineux boss has negotiated an initial month-long loan after injuries robbed him of regular centre-halves Adam Hinshelwood and Guy Butters.
Rotherham United have signed Preston North End striker Dave Hibbert on a six-month loan deal.
The 20-year-old came through the ranks at Port Vale before joining the Lilywhites last summer and went on to make 13 appearances but he failed to score a goal.
Brentford have failed to agree terms with trialist defender George Santos.
The former Queens Park Rangers man played in three pre-season friendlies for the Bees but manager Leroy Rosenior was unable to reach a deal to recruit the experienced centre-back.
Barnet have completed the free-transfer signing of Brazilian striker Magno Silva Vieira on a one-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months.
