Colchester United are ready to open talks with Ryan Dickson about the possibility of offering him a contract.

But U’s boss Joe Dunne says the door is still open on other potential signings, as he continues his search for a new left-back.

Dickson, who was released by Premier League side Southampton last month after spending three years at the south coast club, is currently a free agent and has been training with Colchester.

The 26-year-old featured in the U’s recent pre-season friendlies against Spurs and Braintree Town and could figure again when Colchester host Ipswich Town in another pre-season friendly tonight (7.45pm).

Dunne said: “Ryan played for us at Braintree and we’ll have a look at the situation this week, but I’ve also got some good young ones coming through as well.

“I think Ryan has done well enough for me to speak to him and his representatives in terms of what the possibilities are while still keeping the door open.

“That’s what happens in negotiations."