Transfer News: Lambert Brings In Beevers

Paul Lambert has beat-off apparent competition from Motherwell and Notts County to the signing of versatile defender, Lee Beeversfrom Lincoln.

The 25-year-old reportedly sat down with Motherwell in May to discuss terms and would have signed for the Scottish side but for a recent change of manager. County were yesterday also considering high-jacking the deal at the last moment, according to a number of sources.

Now, however, he becomes Colchester`s third summer signing, on the same day as club captain Chris Coyne is publically revealed to beconsidering a contract offer from Perth Glory. Beevers, who will play anywhere across the back four, looks set to be his replacement and will join on a free on July 1.

“There were other clubs interested but after speaking to Paul Lambert and getting to know him, my mind was made up. He told me what he wants to do and where he wants to go with Colchester,” said the stopper, who played 48 games in League Two last term, in today`s Evening Gazette.

He went on: “I`m happy to be playing anywhere for Colchester as long as I force my way into the team. I know that there will be competition for places but that`s good, because it keeps you on your toes and helps you improve. I`m looking forward to getting to know the lads over pre-season and staking my claim.”

The player also said he is the kind of guy to wear his heart on his sleeve, which can only be a good thing.

The U`s are now waiting on fellow defender Pat Baldwin to agree a new deal, following the news that Alan Maybury has extended his contract with the club.