BARROW-born midfielder Alex Newby has been snapped up by Colchester United ahead of the 2022/23 season.

Newby is the third summer signing at the club and has joined on a two-year deal after departing fellow League Two side Rochdale.

The highly rated midfielder will face his hometown twice this season for the U's and joins up as Wayne Brown's starts to take shape ahead of opening of the 2022/23 season.

Coming through the ranks at Barrow, Newby made his footballing debut for his hometown club before making the switch to National League North Chorley. 

And after putting in some impressive performances with the Magpies, Newby joined Rochdale who were plying their trade in League One at the time. 

Making eighty-two appearances across two seasons for the club, Newby scored thirteen goals before signing for the U's and says fans can expect to see him getting forward again this campaign.

He said: "I'm an attacking player, I like to dribble and be positive in possession. I like to get at teams and make things happen, getting goals and assists, and I want to be a positive player who can excite the fans."

Newby's arrival is subject to approval from the usual relevant bodies. His contract with the U's will officially begin on July 1.