Manager Paul Masters is looking forward to seeing how “relationships develop” as Winchester City announced another batch of new signings ahead of the Southern League South & West Division One campaign.

It has been an extremely busy few weeks at the Denplan City Ground, as Masters starts to mould his squad after their surprise promotion last month.

Already Winchester have seen a number of high profile arrivals, with the likes of Liam Gilbert and Rob Flooks swapping AFC Totton for Hillier Way, as well as Jamie Barron from Folland Sports.

Defender Leigh Mills has also returned after a break from football.

And the transfer activity has continued this week with four more signings.

Saints legend Francis Benali’s son, Luke, who also plays at full-back like his dad did, has put pen to paper at the Denplan alongside ex-Havant & Waterlooville defender Jake Newton – both of whom impressed in recent trial games.

Former Slough midfielder George Short, who has been tracked by Masters since the end of last season, has now officially signed up.

While ex-Poole Town and Blackfield & Langley targetman Dan Cann – another to impress in recent pre-season matches – has also been snapped up to add competition to an already formidable frontline, led by prolific pair Warren Bentley and Zach Glasspool.

“It’s coming together nicely,” said Masters. “We obviously lost a few after promotion but we’re now developing the side.

“I’m looking forward to see them improve through pre-season and looking forward to seeing how relationships develop.”

Winchester are still in the process of filling the goalkeeper’s position, following Ryan Gosney’s departure to Sholing after he was unable to commit to playing in the Southern League.

They expect to wrap up a deal for a new stopper soon.

Meanwhile, Chris Mason’s future is still undecided. The midfielder, who has been at City for a number of seasons, is currently away on holiday, with further discussions set to take place on his return.

Masters is pleased with his new additions.

“Luke (Benali) has come in and done well,” the boss explained. “He’s like his dad (Francis).

“He’s very strong and fit for his age, but I don’t want to put him under any pressure.

“Luke’s not played for a while because of work commitments, so there’s no need to pile the pressure on him.”

Speaking about the capture of Short, Masters said: “To be honest, I’d spoken to him coming to the end of last season,” he said. “He lives in Bishop’s Waltham and had been travelling to Slough for a while.

“He liked the club’s ambitions, so it was a good deal to do.”