David Holdsworth has admitted there is interest from other clubs in some of Carlisle United’s young players.

But the director of football says he is “reluctant” to part with the Blues’ emerging talent.

It has not been confirmed which clubs are eyeing which players, but United have high hopes for some of the teenagers coming through the ranks.

Holdsworth has already described youth team goalkeepers Gabriel Breeze and Scott Simons as players with big potential, while the likes of new pro Lewis Bell and Under-18 goalscorer Sam Fishburn are highly regarded at Brunton Park.

Holdsworth said: “There is interest in a couple of our young players.

“So far there has been no further dialogue between me and teams that have come in for those players.

“I’m reluctant to do anything with those because I know what their potential will be in the future.”

Winger Bell is hoping to push his way into the first-team scene next season after much of his 2020/21 campaign saw the teenager hit by Covid-19.

He was tied to a professional deal early in the campaign as a sign of United’s faith in the talented Cumbrian.

“It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know how much I think of Lewi Bell,” Holdsworth said.

“He’s had a tough five months, and it’s been a massive challenge to get him back fit after what he went through.

“I put on an extra few days training at the end of the season, and you could see was coming out of that and feeling better in himself, which will be wonderful to see when he’s back for this pre-season.

“He will be part of the first team squad. He has got so much in front of him in his career, and I’m excited for the young man.”

While United have yet to add to their one summer signing so far – striker Tristan Abrahams – there is not yet any sign of serious interest in their contracted senior players, such as star midfielder Callum Guy.

Holdsworth said: “Callum had a very successful season – he grew into it and became a real leader in our team. I really enjoy the way he played his football, and he enjoys it at Brunton Park.”