Colchester United have offered new deals to David Prutton and Phil Ifil.

The pair are out of contract this summer.

But U’s boss Aidy Boothroyd wants them both to be part of his squad for next season.

However, Colchester may have to fight off interest from the likes of Brighton and Hove Albion for former Leeds United star Prutton.

Boothroyd told the Gazette: “I like David a lot.

“I’m not surprised that he has been linked with other clubs.

“But he has enjoyed his time at Colchester and I think he has done well for us.

“Phil has played for Tottenham Hotspur in the Premiership.

“He lost his way a bit, which does happen to a lot of child stars.

“But the contract we have offered him is a reward for the fact that he has got himself back on track and he’s done well for us.”

Colchester have confirmed that Matt Lockwood, Scott Vernon, Sam Corcoran and Russell Malton will all leave the club when their current deals expire.

The U’s have received interest for David Perkins and Joel Thomas, who have both been out on loan this season.

Meanwhile, Boothroyd has confirmed that defender Marc Tierney is still mulling over a new contract with the U’s.

See Wednesday’s Daily Gazette for all of the latest U’s news, including the latest on Aidy Boothroyd’s hunt for new signings.