U's Target Wants Cheltenham Exit

Colchester United transfer target Steven Gillespie, currently of Cheltenham Town, has handed in a written transfer request.

The 16 goal front-man, 24, is a target for the U's, while Carlisle are also keeping tabs on him. The Town board must now decide whether to grant Gillespie's request and circulate his name to other clubs as being available for transfer or alternatively reject it.

It is also believed that U's boss Geraint Williams has seen a £300,000 bid rejected by the Whaddon Road outfit.

Robins' manager Keith Downing told the club's official website: 'Steven came to see me today and handed in his transfer request.

'He has not made the request because he is unhappy here. It is purely because he is aware of the interest from other clubs and feels that he would like to look at opportunities elsewhere.

'I very much want to keep Steven and he has known that all along.

'It is now up to the Board to decide whether to accept the offer or not. Either way, Steven remains very much part of our plans and is continuing to work hard with us in pre-season training.'

Gillespie still has two years to run on his contract, so Cheltenham are still likely to demand a large transfer fee.

Meanwhile, reports in the Irish press are linking the U's with a move for Celtic's Paul Cahillane. Cahillane, who has been freed by Celtic, is a tricky winger. Championship side Burnley have also been linked.


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