SOUTHEND United transfer target Jakub Sokolik has held talks with League One side Yeovil Town.

Sokolik ended last season on loan with the Shrimpers from Liverpool and manager Phil Brown is keen to bring him back to Roots Hall on a permanent basis.

But a club from a higher level, which Echosport understands to be the Glovers, are also keen to sign the centre-back.

And Brown expects the defender to make up mind within the next 48 hours.

“Our talks with Jakub at the start of the week were very positive but I also know he’s been to see a League One club and spoken to their manager as well,” said the Shrimpers boss.

“When he was travelling back from talking to them I made sure I rang him again to make sure we were fresh in his mind.

“I reiterated what we are trying to achieve at the football club and the big part he can play in that and now it’s up to him what he decides really.

“We’ve done all we can and I think he will probably make up his mind within the next 48 hours.”

Sokolik impressed while with Blues at the end of last season, making 12 appearances as Brown’s side worked their way in to the League Two play-offs before losing to Burton Albion.

Brown now wants Sokolik to help the Shrimpers get promotion next season and believes the 20-year-old’s mind will not be made up by money.

“I don’t think this is going to come down to the finances,” said the Southend chief.

“It’s going to be purely based on football I think and hopefully, because he already knows all about us and the area, he will chose to come to Southend United.

“If he does then he will be a very big and important player for us.”