Aaron Skelton is still trying to thrash out a deal with Luton Town.
The out-of-contract Colchester United defender has been in talks with Luton boss Lennie Lawrence since the end of the season.
Skelton, 25, can sign for the U's Second Division rivals on a Bosman-free transfer but he still has an offer on the table at Layer Road.
U's chief Steve Whitton said today (Friday): "I've spoken to Skelton and ideally I want everything sorted out by next Friday.
"We want to plan for next season and of course the player would like his future sorted out by then, but he's in the driving seat.
"It's a player's market and they are free to do whatever they want when they are out of contract. I want him to stay with us but I understand the reasons why he wants to talk with other clubs."
Tony Lock has still to put pen to paper on a new deal at Layer Road but it's understood the striker is keen to sign.
Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article