Paul Lewis makes switch to Cambridge United

Young midfielder joins the U's

Paul Lewis has signed for Cambridge United on a long-term contract.

The 22-year-old central midfielder has moved to the Cambs Glass Stadium from Macclesfield Town for an undisclosed fee on a three-and-a-half year deal.

Lewis made his senior debut for Macclesfield in August 2013, and has gone on to amass almost 100 appearances for the National League side. And despite his tender years has become one of their most experienced players.

“I’m delighted to make the switch and having looked around the place, it’s a nice city and a really great stadium, so I can’t wait to get started,” said Lewis.

“I’ve been at Macclesfield a number of years, enjoyed my time there but this is a really good opportunity to come and improve myself.

“It’s a chance to join a team making good progress and for me to test myself against better quality players. It will be a different environment but one I’m looking forward to playing a part in.

“I play as a box-to-box midfielder that likes to get forward and I’ll be aiming to produce a few goals as well.

“The manager (Shaun Derry) played in my position at the highest level so I’ll be able to learn a lot and can’t wait to get to work with him.”

Cambridge United head of football operations Ben Strang was delighted to secure the signing of Lewis, and thanked Macclesfield for their approach during the transfer.

“We’re thrilled to complete the signing of Paul,” said Strang. “Having recently turned 22 he joins us at an excellent age and moment in his career, having amassed almost 100 appearances in a tough league with Macclesfield.

“He brings athleticism, a fantastic mentality and goal scoring ability from midfield.

“Paul was keen to demonstrate that he can play at a higher level and with the security of a three-and-a-half year contract we look forward to helping him realise this ambition and assisting in the next part of his development.

“As with any bright prospect there was naturally interest from other clubs but we’re delighted that Paul sees Cambridge United as the right move for him.”

He added: “We’d like to thank Macclesfield, particularly Mark Blower (chairman) and John Askey (manager) for their professional approach throughout these dealings.

“Shaun (Derry) and the coaching staff are excited by Paul’s potential and look forward to welcoming him into the squad.

“We’re pleased to add Paul and Jake (Carroll, who signed from Hartlepool on Thursday) in the past couple of days to our squad, and crucially with a longer term view than just the end of this season.

“Our aim was to strengthen the squad during this window and we believe that these two signings help to fulfil that.”