2.0 L series noise

Hi people, been a member for a few years now and frequented the series and defender forums. Just recently bought a w reg Freelander station wagon for my forestry work. I needed a comfy ride for the long distances and also something that had 4x4. I really wanted to not like it but it has not got stuck yet and is returning fantastic mpg! According to the service history it had vcu and props at 109k. It's now done 138k. Apart from having to replace the ARB drop links. it's only issue is that when changing gear and lifting off the clutch there is a metallic "ching" sound coming from the front. Does anybody have any ideas as to what it might be? Many thanks in advance.

"Clunks" and "whines" are difficult to diagnose not being there - but "chings" are the worst

Couple of thoughts....

Do you know if its something to do with the clutch mechanism (does it do it when engine is off and you put it into gears)?
Does it happen on all gears (inc reverse) and sound the same?
Does it only happen on acceleration, or also if you put it in gear and don't give it too many revs?
Does it happen on overrun when you lift on the throttle?
If you put it in gear, left go of the gearstick and lift the clutch, does the gearstick move much?

If you test that lot, your neighbours are going to think you've gone nuts

Lol. It seems to only make that noise changing through the gears when accelerating. I'll try the engine off test tomorrow. Same sound as the one I get on my series when the front UJ starts to deteriorate. Maybe UJ? Don't know much about these freelanders. Too new for me! Hehe.

It seems the noise is only when the vehicle is on the move and under load.