JEAN-Francois Christophe is close to completing a permanent switch to Southend United.

The midfielder has been in fine form since arriving on loan from Portsmouth in September.

And Blues boss Steve Tilson has confirmed the Frenchman should be staying at Roots Hall when the transfer window re-opens in January.

“It’s pretty close to all being sorted out now,” said Tilson.

“It’s nearly done and it would be an excellent signing for us.

“We’ve seen what he can do during his loan spell and brings a bit of muscle to the team.

“We’re just waiting to hear back from his agent now and that’s when the final details should be sorted out.”

The length of contract is still to be confirmed but Blues seem set to snap up the 21-year-old and the move will officially be completed for a minimal fee in January.

But, with Christophe’s loan expiring in three weeks time, it means Southend will be missing the midfielder during the hectic schedule over Christmas.

And that could see Tilson heading back into the loan market.

The Shrimpers chief is also keen to recruit another left-winger after loanee Hal Robson-Kanu returned to Reading.

Tilson has already tried to sign two Premier League youngsters currently with a club in the capital and he has not given up hope of soon bringing in another wide-man.

“I know we need to bring someone in and we’ve drawn up a list,” he said.

“There’s no news just yet but we’re working hard and hopefully there will be soon.”

Tilson is striving to complete a signing before Saturday’s home clash with Oldham Athletic and he has been boosted ahead of the game by the news that both Alex Revell and Lee Barnard could be back in contention.

The Shrimpers were missing five forwards for the midweek FA Cup victory over AFC Telford United but the duo are close to being fit again.

“They are both making good progress,” he confirmed.

“Revs should train today and Barney is coming along well too. We certainly hope they are back too because like we saw in the week we are short of options up the top right now.”

Dougie Freedman (thigh) and Francis Laurent (suspended) are definitely still out, while Paul Furlong is also still struggling with a hip problem.