SOUTHEND United manager Chris Powell does not expect to complete any permanent signings before the transfer window closes later today.

Powell has until 5pm to bring players to Roots Hall on a permanent basis.

But the Blues boss does have until the end of August to complete loan signings and is now likely to explore that option.

“I don’t expect permanent signings, I think time is against us in that respect, but I always knew that,” said Powell.

“We’ve lost on some players, financially and location wise and some teams are paying quite big money.

“They get put out as undisclosed fees, but we know what they’ve paid for certain individuals and we can’t do that.

“We’re having to look at the loan market and that’s open until the end of August.”

And Powell is hopeful of soon adding to his squad.

“I’m hoping we can get someone in as soon as possible,” said Powell.

“Whether that’s in time for Saturday or next week for Brentford and Bradford I don’t know.

“But I’m hopeful we can add one or two to the group because we need it.

“We’re quite light, especially when you have one or two knocks.”