Carlisle United Ready to Offer Mark Gillespie a New Contract, Says Keith Curle

Carlisle United manager Keith Curle says that the club are expecting offers for goalkeeper Mark Gillespie in January.

Hence, they are preparing to offer a new contract for the 24-year-old, who has already been scouted by a number of clubs this season. While the manager says that he would like to complete negotiations and extend the player’s contract before the end of December, the finances at the club will have a major role to play.Curle is aware about the interest in Gillespie largely because those who have attended the games to watch Carlisle United players are goalkeeping coaches.

Gillespie is an attractive option for clubs across the English league considering that he will be available on a free transfer in the summer. Rather than lose him for nothing, Carlisle United are likely to accept a small compensation in the January transfer window.

Curle, though, sees him as an integral part of the club and someone who would be very crucial in their promotion aspirations. Carlisle have been one of the best clubs in the League Two this season. Even with the recent 2-0 defeat against Newport County, they remain in the top two places of the table. It is highly likely that they would be able to persuade Gillespie to sign a new contract as the prospect of getting promoted to League One remains distinct.

“There’s been a few people that have consistently come and watched our games that I know are goalkeeping coaches.I’m assuming their appearance at our games means they’re watching our goalkeeper.I’d be very surprised if people don’t come in and try and test our arm with an offer for Mark, because I think the lad has been doing exceptionally well.Discussions have already taken place – we’re just waiting for that to get finalised.There are different situations happening at the club, and it’s trying to get the timing right,” said Curle.