Martin Allen claims a member of staff at Cambridge United has offered him players which are not getting into their squad ahead of the U’s visit to Barnet on Saturday.

The Bees have already signed Tom Champion and Michael Nelson on free transfers following their release from the Abbey.

But Allen has now claimed an unnamed member of staff at Cambridge has been offering him players on the fringes of the U’s squad.

He told the club website: “Two weeks ago I had a member of the Cambridge United staff offering us players that can’t get into their squad.

“So I thought that was quite interesting – they’re offering the players who aren’t good enough for Cambridge to us.”

Currently seventh after four games, Richard Money’s side have been heavily tipped to win promotion to League One in just their second season back in the Football League.

Signings such as Barry Corr from Southend United, former U Luke Berry from Barnsley and ex-Leyton Orient defender Elliot Omozusi have all been tempted to move to Cambridge.

Allen believes they have benefitted from the financial reward of a money-spinning FA Cup fourth round tie with Manchester United last term.

After drawing 0-0 at the Abbey Stadium – a game in which Nelson and Champion both played – Money’s side were beaten 3-0 at Old Trafford in a replay.

“Richard Money has been able to bring in a lot of good players from their FA Cup run last year,” said Allen.

“We tried to sign some of those players. Unfortunately we can’t match what they can pay, after those two cup games against Manchester United.”