Goalkeeper Carl Pentney, who joined the U's on non-contract terms as cover while Ben Williams was out injured, has been given a deal at United Way until the end of the season.
John Ward confirmed to the Colchester Gazette: "Carl has agreed a one-year contract with us. He's impressed me since he has been with us and it's something I was pleased to do."
With three keepers now on the U's books, Ward has hinted that it is likely that one of the trio will be loaned out once Williams returns to full fitness.