Colchester United director of football Tony Humes says they are hoping to add to their squad before the transfer window closes.

The U’s have been linked with a number of players this month, as they look to bolster their options for the final three months of the League Two campaign.

Colchester are said to be interested in Cheltenham Town midfielder Harry Pell, while Barnsley forward and former loanee Elliot Lee has also been mentioned as a target.

The U’s have also been tracking Motherwell keeper Dean Brill, who trained with them at Florence Park last week.

Humes told the Daily Gazette: “It’s an on-going process.

“There’s a week left until this month’s transfer window closes.

“As with all clubs, we’re looking at our squad and what we need and looking to see what we want.

“It depends on who is available and whether or not we can compete with what has been asked for.

“The way that the game works, players we think we are close to sometimes have other irons in the fire.

“So until we have that signature on the paper, it’s a case of waiting.

“But we’re actively looking for a couple of players to strengthen us a bit.”

Colchester have already reinforced their squad over recent weeks, signing Cardiff City duo Tommy O’Sullivan and Eli Phipps along with former Shrewsbury Town defender, Jermaine Grandison.

However, U’s head coach John McGreal is still keen to bring in further players, as his side push for promotion back to League One at the first time of asking.

Meanwhile, Humes says Frankie Kent winning the EFL Young Player of the Month award for December is a big thumbs up for the young defender and for the U’s.

Centre-back Kent has emerged from the Colchester academy and is now a regular in the first team, where he played nearly half of his 54 league and cup games for the club during Humes’ reign as manager.

“It’s great recognition for Frankie and for the club,” added Humes.

“It shows that what we’re doing gives opportunities to progress in their career.

“Frankie’s been around the first team for the last four seasons now and he’s maturing both as a footballer and physically.”