League Two duo Colchester United and Fleetwood Town have reportedly invited Daniel Ogunleye on trial with a view to sign the Brentwood Town talisman. The 23-year-old enjoyed a mightily impressive season in the Isthmian League North Division last term, causing a major stir amongst potential EFL suitors.
As the players return for pre-season training, Pete O’Rourke reports that both Fleetwood and Colchester are keen to gauge Ogunleye in close proximity with their existing squad.
Colchester United and Fleetwood Town Eye Goal Machine
Daniel Ogunleye played the starring role in Brentwood Town’s title-winning season in 2024/25. He recorded 56 goal involvements across the campaign, including 36 goals, a tally that comfortably saw him win the division’s top scorer award.
The Essex club comfortably won promotion to the Isthmian Premier Division, but may have to prepare for life after their free-scoring forward. His contract at Brentwood runs out this summer, and with two EFL clubs prepared to offer him trials, a significant climb up the ladder looks likely for Ogunleye.
Colchester Aim to Tackle Goal-Scoring Failings
Colchester United finished tenth in League 2 last term, finishing just five points adrift of a play-off spot. To bridge the gap next time around, head coach Danny Cowley is determined to target offensive reinforcements.
The U’s started the season sluggishly, and ultimately hit their stride too late in terms of challenging for promotion. They managed 52 goals in their entire league campaign, the lowest of all clubs to finish in the top half of EFL League 2. Therefore, it’s little wonder that their interest has been piqued by one of the most lethal goal scorers around.
If Colchester pursue a deal for Ogunleye, they may fancy their chances of convincing him to remain in Essex and make the switch to the Colchester Community Stadium.
Fleetwood Looking for Progression
Fleetwood endured a season of stability in 2024/25, steadying their feet to finish 14th after relegation the previous campaign. Pete Wild will be demanding improvement, and attacking reinforcements to equip his squad ready to challenge higher up the table.
The reportedly agreed departure of talented England youth international Reece Wilkes to Norwich, has left Fleetwood slightly short in the attacking areas. Phoenix Patterson has also swapped the Lancashire coast for Stevenage, leaving the need for incomings at Highbury even greater.
The Cod Army was the picture of consistency last season, conceding and scoring 60 goals on their way to amassing 60 points.
With the new season drawing closer, battle lines have been drawn in the race to secure the signing of one of the Isthmian League’s brightest prospects.