Keates, who is preparing to take charge of his first season as Saddlers manager. has already added to his attacking line with the signing of Tranmere Rovers' National League top-scorer Andy Cook and Burnley winger Josh Ginnelly and was about to land another as-yet unnamed man before his people began to move the goalposts.
Dean, who was speaking via the Express & Star, said; "I thought I had something over the line on Tuesday. They wanted more money. We agreed. Then they want more again. They kept moving the goalposts and I got to the point where I felt enough was enough. I pulled out myself and said they were being unrealistic.
"I thought the deal was agreed. It was written up. And then they come back and ask for X, Y and Z. You get to the point where you think, ‘If you are going to keep doing those things’ you’re not the type of person I want at the football club. If you’re going to go back on something you said you wanted when we have got to a point where all parties are happy – to then move the goalposts, I didn’t feel that was right."
Dean went on to reveal that he has got a few offers out there and expects business to pick up as the new season draws near, he continued; "We have got a few things in the pipeline and a few offers out there. But it’s that time of year – it’s silly season. There are players and agents out there who want to use you as a bit of leverage. But a lot of players are still away on holiday. A lot want to have a bit of a break from football and think over their options. Things then pick up when they come back."