COLCHESTER United caretaker boss Joe Dunne is reported to be set to sign midfielder Craig Eastmond on loan from Arsenal.

Dunne had revealed, in his first media interview since being appointed U’s caretaker, that he had been given the green light to bring in one or two new players by chairman Robbie Cowling.

And it appears that Eastmond, a highly-rated 21-year-old former Academy star with the Gunners, is poised to sign on loan for the League One club.

Battersea-born Eastmond, who can operate as a right-back as well as a defensive midfielder, has enjoyed previous loan spells at Millwall and Wycombe.

Eastmond has so far made 10 first team appearances for Arsenal, four in the league and six in cup competitions.