Colchester United are reportedly close to signing Ipswich Town striker Jack Marriott on loan.

Marriott, 20, is currently on loan at Conference Premier side Woking until the end of the season.

Colchester are on the hunt for a new striker to replace Freddie Sears, who left the U's for Town last Friday.

And Marriott, who is out of contract at Ipswich at the end of the season, will add to manager Tony Humes' options.

However, the Gazette understands the young striker will not be arriving as a direct replacement for Sears.

Marriott has already enjoyed loan spells in the Football League with Gillingham and Carlisle United.

For all of the latest Colchester United news, see the Daily Gazette.