SOUTHEND United are set to miss out on signing centre-back Sonny Bradley.

Echosport revealed earlier this week how Shrimpers boss Chris Powell was keen to bring the Plymouth Argyle defender to Roots Hall ahead of the new campaign.

But it is now understood Bradley has opted to join Luton Town who were promoted from League Two last term.

Bradley - who made 44 appearances for the Pilgrims last season - was not short of options after opting to leave Home Park.

Barnsley, Bolton Wanderers and Charlton Athletic were also interested in signing the 26-year-old along with Scottish duo Rangers and Hearts.

Bradley was voted player of the year in his first season at Plymouth but now looks set to team up with former Shrimpers left-back Nathan Jones who is in charge at Luton Town.

As a result, Blues will now be looking elsewhere to bolster their squad.

Boss Powell remains keen on signing former Ipswich Town midfielder Luke Hyam while Sam Mantom, who ended last season on loan with the Shrimpers from Scunthorpe United, remains another transfer target.

Southend are also keen on signing ex AFC Wimbledon striker Lyle Taylor, former Scunthorpe United forward Tom Hopper and Kyle Vassell who lined up in League One for Blackpool last term.