COLCHESTER United are closing in on the signing of former Ipswich Town skipper Luke Chambers.

The Gazette understands the U's are hoping to seal the capture of the experienced defender this week, as they build their squad ahead of the new League Two season.

Chambers, along with Cole Skuse who signed for Colchester earlier this month, has departed Ipswich after the club decided against offering him a new deal.

The 35-year-old clocked up nearly 400 appearances for the League One outfit on a free transfer from Nottingham Forest, in the summer of 2012.

Speaking after it was announced that Chambers and Skuse would be departing this summer, Ipswich boss Paul Cook said the duo are model professionals.

Cook said: "Chambo and Cole have been exemplary pros for this football club.

“Not only are they very good footballers, they are stand-out men in the way they conduct themselves.

“They have been a pleasure to work with in my short time here and you won’t find better role models for young players coming through.

“We thank them for their fantastic service to Ipswich Town Football Club and wish them every success in whatever they do going forward.”

Chambers started his career at Northampton Town, making his senior debut for the Cobblers in a division two match in 2003.

The 6ft centre-back moved to Forest in January 2007 and made nearly 250 appearances for the Reds, before joining Ipswich.

If Colchester tie up Chambers' signing as expected, he will become their second summer capture following midfielder Skuse's arrival earlier this month.

The U's are on the lookout for more new arrivals in the coming weeks, following the departure of 11 first-team players.

Freddie Sears and Alan Judge, who have also been released by Ipswich, have also been linked with Colchester.