Colchester United head coach John McGreal says they want to make a “statement of intent” in the transfer market, this summer.

The U’s are busy reshaping their squad for the next campaign and are closing in on the signing of Cheltenham Town midfielder Harry Pell, believed to be for a six-figure fee.

Colchester are looking to add to their ranks following Drey Wright’s exit to Scottish Premiership club St Johnstone and the release of Doug Loft, Craig Slater, Denny Johnstone and Tommy O’Sullivan, earlier this week.

McGreal said: “It would be great for us to make a statement of intent to let the fans and ourselves know that we’re progressing the football club.

“That’s what we’re trying to look to do and it would be great if we can get business done early but I’ve been here a couple of years and it does tend to happen a lot more in June and July, rather than May.

“We’ll be hoping and it won’t be from a lack of trying.

“The season is now done for the players but now for myself, Steve (Ball) and recruitment, hopefully this is where we can make a few additions and show we’re going to try and have a go again, next year.

“We need to try and keep as many of our Colchester boys as we can but it’s competitive and we’re competing with not only clubs in our league but also different ones.

“We believe in our philosophy and identity and our facilities are second to none in this division.”

Wright has signed a two-year contract with St Johnstone, after rejecting the chance to stay at the U’s.

He made nearly 150 appearances for Colchester, scoring nine goals.

St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright told the club’s official website: “Drey is a player we’ve watched over a period of time and we were aware that his contract was coming to an end.

“He’s played in a variety of roles for Colchester United but I see him as a right-sided attacking player and I’m confident that he’ll contribute much to the team both in terms of goals and assists.”