Last updated at 09:00, Saturday, 07 July 2012

Former Carlisle United keeper Ben Williams could be on his way to Ipswich Town after rejecting a new deal with Colchester.

Williams has set his sights on playing in the Championship after becoming a free agent following an impressive season for John Ward’s side.

The 29-year-old swapped Carlisle for Colchester in a surprise £60,000 move three years ago, and has made more than 120 appearances for the U’s.

Ipswich boss Paul Jewell is reported to be in the hunt for a new keeper and has Williams on his list of targets.

Former Carlisle boss Ward said: “Ben wants to play in the Championship and feels now is his best opportunity.

“We gave him quite a lot of leeway in terms of his new contract, but we have to respect the decision he’s made.”

Williams kept 11 clean sheets last season, and will be replaced by his understudy Mark Cousins as first-choice keeper next season.

Meanwhile, former Carlisle loan star Adam Clayton has joined Huddersfield Town from their Yorkshire rivals Leeds United.

Clayton, who starred for the Blues in the 2009/10 season, played under Terriers boss Simon Grayson at Elland Road after being signed from Manchester City.

Grayson said: “Adam had a great season last year and scored some important goals.

“We’re delighted to secure his services.

“I think it shows our intent in the level of players we want.”

Clayton, who had been transfer listed by Leeds boss Neil Warnock, previously had loan spells at Carlisle, Peterborough and MK Dons and scored six goals in 43 Championship games last season.

First published at 08:56, Saturday, 07 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk