Luke Berry makes Cambridge United departure

Midfielder signs for League Two rivals

Luke Berry has left Cambridge United to join Sky Bet League Two rivals Luton Town.

The 25-year-old midfielder, who was the U’s top scorer last season, handed in a transfer request earlier this week.

And today (August 26), Berry has signed for the Hatters on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

Berry was a product of United’s youth system, making his first-team debut in April 2010.

He made 135 appearances before joining Barnsley in the summer of 2014, but returned to the Cambs Glass Stadium a year later, and he went on to score 35 goals in 105 appearances in his second spell at the club.

A statement from Cambridge United read: “Following Luke Berry’s transfer request earlier this week stressing his desire to leave Cambridge United, the club confirms his transfer to Luton Town for an undisclosed financial package.

“Throughout the summer we have been clear that we had no desire to sell Luke Berry. The club has done everything possible to persuade Luke that his future lies with Cambridge United, including the offer of a new contract.

“However, Luke has made it equally clear to the club throughout the summer that he wished to leave.

“We had previously managed to repel offers from two other clubs in this transfer window before receiving bids from Luton Town on Friday and Sunday of last week, both of which were rejected.

“The situation changed earlier this week when Luke submitted a written transfer request and sought permission to speak to Luton Town.

“Whilst selling Luke to a fellow League Two club will be seen by many as unpalatable, we had to act in the best interests of Cambridge United when the player made it abundantly clear that he wished to pursue this opportunity.

“In these circumstances, we negotiated the best possible financial package for our club.

“We thank Luke for his contribution to Cambridge United in his two spells at the club and we wish him all the best for the future.

“Our determination and desire to be successful is greater than ever, and we feel that our recruitment this summer, bringing in a mixture of young talent and experienced players, reflects this ambition.

“We have a talented squad, with everything to play for this season, and we urge our superb fans to continue their fantastic support of the team starting with Morecambe at the Cambs Glass Stadium tomorrow.”