COLCHESTER United are ready for any last-minute interest in their prize assets on transfer deadline day.

The U's have been very active in this month's window, signing seven new players in total.

Colchester could add to that number today prior to tonight's 11pm deadline, with a new goalkeeper top of their list.

However, there is also the possibility that they might receive a firm offer for at least one of their talented young players.

Highly-rated midfielder Brendan Wiredu is said to have attracted interest from Championship clubs, this month.

And the likes of Shamal George (pictured below) and Noah Chilvers are also thought to be on the radar of higher-placed clubs.

Gazette:

However, Colchester have plans in place to deal with any late bids for their players with options themselves, should they lose anyone from their squad.

Colchester interim head coach Wayne Brown said: “When you’ve got quality players, there’s always interest in them, especially from higher up the spectrum.

“We’re prepared for that and we have to assess it, if anything does happen.”

Wiredu has grown in stature since Steve Ball brought him back to Colchester in February 2021 on a permanent basis, after his successful loan spell at the JobServe Community Stadium.

The 22-year-old has been one of the first names on the teamsheet this season and has made 48 league and cup appearances for the U's in total since his permanent move from Charlton Athletic.

Gazette:

Wiredu signed a contract extension with Colchester until the summer of 2023, last July.

That would mean the U's would command a realistic fee for the youngster, should he move on today.

Colchester's head of first-team recruitment Steve Ball said: “Brendan is a quality lad and a brilliant person, which is first and foremost.

“But he’s also a tremendous player and I’ve got no doubt in my mind that Brendan will play at a much higher level than League Two.

“That’s great for him as a player but as a club, we also have to do what’s right for us too.

“I’m sure the chairman will be wanting the right fee for someone like Brendan.

“He’s a really important player to us."

The January transfer window closes at 11pm tonight.