Carlisle United boss Paul Simpson has described some of the January spending in League Two as “crazy”.

There has been a glut of deals in recent days – with some of the division’s strugglers in particular recruiting heavily.

The likes of Gillingham and Colchester United have brought in a number of players in their bid to climb the table.

The Gills have arguably been the most eyecatching operators in the January market following their takeover by American businessman Brad Galinson.

Well-backed Stockport County have also been active, Simpson having explained how United could not compete with the financial package the Hatters tabled to ex-Blues loan striker Jack Stretton.

Moves elsewhere have also caught the eye and Simpson said of the League Two market: “It’s gone mad.

“I don’t know where these clubs are getting their money from to do it. It’s crazy.

“I’m being told about the money they’re offering as well…it’s just madness. One thing I will say is I wish I was still playing.

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“It’s crazy what’s been given out, but good luck to them all. I hope they can sustain it and they’ve got the money to be able to pay it.”

Carlisle, Simpson has said, are operating with a budget that is around the bottom six or seven in League Two.

They are, though, firmly in the promotion race in fourth place ahead of Saturday’s trip to rivals Bradford City.

United increased their budget to back Simpson this season, with the Blues boss having also used the loan market for three signings this month, and the manager keen to add at least one more new face.

He says that while he is ambitious for the Cumbrians, he would never put the club at financial risk with transfer dealings.

“What we don’t want to see is situations like Bury Football Club, and Macclesfield, where [clubs are] going out of business because of it,” Simpson said.

“I hope [those who are spending big] have got a sustainable plan, which is something that I am fully aware of.

“I’ve got a real affinity with Carlisle United and as much as I want success like the next bloke, for me I want this football club to get better, and I’m not going to fleece them, skin them.

“It’s a case of working within the budget. These clubs going out splashing the cash around and bringing players in...I hope they can afford it.”