Richie Wellens targets proven goalscorer that can complement Theo Robinson - who remains in dialogue regarding permanent Swindon Town move

Robinson is Wellens’ only public transfer target amid the Town boss’ attempt to tie down out-of-contract players Kyle Knoyle and Dion Conroy to fresh deals – with the former reportedly targeted by Cambridge United.

Reports have also suggested Wellens has shown interest in snapping up Newcastle youngster Matty Longstaff on a loan deal, and Rotherham United forward Jerry Yates on a permanent move.

We understand the Town boss has declared interest in only one of the above two rumoured players.

“I’m still in dialogue with Theo (Robinson), and I’ve had a conversation with Kevin Bond (Southend United manager),” said Wellens.

“I’ve left it with Kevin, Theo is his player and I respect whatever he decides to do. But I have made it clear that we would like to sign Theo.

“When Kevin comes back to me, we will have a conversation and see if we can get a deal done.”

Wellens’ determination to add Robinson as a permanent member to his squad follows the Birmingham-born striker’s efforts in front of goal since joining Town on loan in January.

Seven goals in 15 games proved enough to win the 39-year-old over.

But the Town boss will also seek to fill the voids left by Marc Richards and Ben House.

Richards’ departure in particular has granted Wellens with some breathing space regarding his wage budget. And he has vowed to do everything he can to attract the best striker possible to the County Ground.

He added: “I don’t want Theo to be my only goalscorer. I let Marc Richards go, he was on good money here.

“I’ll be replacing Marc with the best striker I can possibly get.

“I’ll be dipping into the loan market again to replace a striker like Ben House.

“Ideally, I want four strikers – I want to stick two up front.

“If I get the midfield players that I want next year, then we can play more often with two strikers up front.

“But for that to happen, I would need four in the squad.”