Colchester United are closing in on a move for Motherwell goalkeeper Dean Brill.

The 31-year-old has been training with the U's, with his first-team opportunities currently limited at the Scottish Premiership club.

Brill, who is free to discuss terms with other clubs as he has six months remaining on his current Motherwell deal, has now returned to Scotland.

But he is in talks with the U's about a possible switch to the Weston Homes Community Stadium.

U's head coach John McGreal said: "(U's director of football) Tony Humes is in contact with Dean's representatives.

"He was allowed to train with us for two days and now he's gone back up to Motherwell.

"I think they have a cup game against Rangers this weekend and their league starts again the week after, after the winter break.

"We're looking to bring a new goalkeeper after James (Bransgrove) left and it's an area we do need to fill." 

Brill joined Well from Inverness Caledonian Thistle last summer but is yet to make a first-team start for Mark McGhee's side.

The Englishman has made more than 300 league and cup appearances for the likes of Luton Town, Oldham Athletic and Barnet during his career.

Colchester's keeper options have been reduced after James Bransgrove's shock decision to quit football, last month.

Sam Walker has started every league game for Colchester this season and Dillon Barnes has been a regular deputy for him, on the bench.