Colchester United have signed Chelsea defender Archange Nkumu on a three-month loan deal.

The 18-year-old, who can play all along the back four or as a defensive midfielder, will strengthen the U's options primarily at under-21 level.

He is the fourth loanee that boss Joe Dunne has signed since taking over from John Ward, last month.

Dunne said: "It's a youth loan and, as well as being around our first team, he will add to the quality of the U21s group.

"I've seen him play a number of times and the level of competition at Chelsea at U21s level is exceptionally high, so it's a chance for him to come out and experience a different pathway in the game.

"We've signed him for competition for the first team, but he'll also push on the players in the U21s group."

Nkumu will watch his new Colchester team-mates tonight when they take on Leyton Orient, at Brisbane Road.

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