ADAM Barrett is set to sign a new four and a half year contract with Southend United.
The Shrimpers turned down a second bid of £250,000 from local rivals Colchester for the popular defender last week.
And Barrett, whose current deal expires at the end of the season, is now ready to commit his long-term future to his hometown club.
"We have started negotiations over a new contract and it should be signed in the next few days," said Barrett, 28.
"I'm very happy here and I want to commit for longer.
"Everyone knows what the club means to me and I've had a great time since I've been here.
"It's great that they have shown they want me to stay and I would like to finish my career with Southend."
See the full story in tomorrow's Echosport
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article