QUEENS Park Rangers have seen an improved offer of £1.25 million for Southend United goalkeeper Daniel Bentley turned down by the Shrimpers, Echosport understands.

Blues opted to reject QPR’s two previous bids for the 22-year-old Bentley.

And Southend boss Phil Brown is keen for the custodian to stay with the club.

“I’ll be doing all I possibly can to keep Daniel Bentley,” said Brown.

“He’s still a Southend United player until further notice but the chairman and chief executive are dealing with QPR directly.

“Their manager hasn’t phoned me and as far as I’m concerned Dan will be playing for us again at Doncaster Rovers on Wednesday night.

“It is true QPR have showed a lot more interest in terms of finances but it’s really a question for the chairman and chief executive.”

Neither chairman Ron Martin or chief executive Steve Kavanagh were available to comment before the Echo went to print.

But Brown insisted there was never any chance of Bentley missing Saturday’s match with Walsall, despite the continued speculation surrounding his future.

“There was no doubt on whether or not Daniel would play,” said Brown.

“I spoke to him about it all and I think his reputation will be greatly improved from the outside.

“He’s shown a focus and mentality to train and he pulled off some good saves to keep the score to 2-0 on Saturday.

“I’ll do all I possibly can to keep him here.”

Following Blues’ decision to turn down QPR’s latest bid, the Championship club have been linked with a move for Huddersfield Town goalkeeper Alex Smithies.

The 25-year-old did not feature for the Terriers in their 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers at the weekend.