Mick McCarthy has signed a “real asset” in Colchester United striker Freddie Sears – and may look to add to his frontline with the loan capture of Leeds United hitman Billy Sharp.

The Blues signed 25-year-old Sears for an undisclosed fee on a two-and-a-half year deal yesterday, and the former West Ham youngster is set to be included in Town’s squad for today’s trip to Millwall.

The Blues will be without David McGoldrick at The Den – the striker picking up a knock in Wednesday night’s FA Cup defeat to Southampton – and it is understood they were keen to push through a deal for the experienced Sharp last night.

The 28-year-old has struggled for goals at Elland Road since a summer switch from Southampton and sources in Yorkshire claim the Whites may be receptive to striking a deal, the forward initially signing on-loan until the end of the season, before agreeing a permanent summer switch.

Sharp would add potency to Town’s strikeforce and join Sears, who has plundered 14 goals in League One for the relegation-threatened U’s.

Sears looks set to start on the bench for the Blues today, with Noel Hunt favourite to replace McGoldrick, but the striker can’t wait to make a contribution.

“I am looking forward to linking up with the strikers, (Daryl) Murphy and (David) McGoldrick have been on fire here this season and there is Noel Hunt as well,” said Sears. “I’m looking forward to the challenge of getting in the team and if I can help out off the bench that’s what I’m going to do.”

He added: “My aim was to play at a higher level. I went to Colchester and enjoyed my time there but my ultimate aim and goal was to move back up the leagues and it’s a great opportunity for me to come here and join a team that is moving in the right direction.

“The aim is promotion. We are so close to the top now and we want to be in the top league.”

McCarthy added: “When we have looked at the goals he has scored, they have been different types of goals. He’s also quick and he’s got a good touch.

“He was a prodigious young talent at West Ham. He’s older now and stronger and he’s a good signing for us.

“He will be a real asset.”