SOUTHEND United have turned down two offers for hot-shot Lee Barnard.

As was revealed in yesterday’s Echo, Southampton were first to bid for the Shrimpers top goalscorer when they tabled an £150,000 offer.

And Leeds United have now also officially entered the race by bidding £175,000 for the striker.

But those two offers have been rejected by Blues chairman Ron Martin “The club has received offers from two clubs, “confirmed Martin.

“Both of which have been refused.”

The Shrimpers surpremo insisted he was still keen to keep Barnard at Roots Hall but he was also wary of losing the striker on a free transfer at the end of the season.

Southend have offered the 25-year-old a new deal but Martin believes Barnard – who has been made aware of the bids by manager Steve Tilson – now has no interest in staying. “Of course the club doesn’t want to sell Lee but clearly he will not sign a new contract and I am told he will walk at the end of the season,” said Martin.

“In the meantime, because the player recognises that he might double or even treble his wages at the clubs that have enquired, it would be difficult for the manager to keep him motivated when the player has at least one eye on leaving and potentially at a higher level.

“There has been interest from two League One clubs over the past few days with a third club, again in League One, making enquiries yesterday.

“All these clubs are vying for promotion and are formally of at least Championship status.”

The third club interested in Barnard have not yet tabled on offer but it does seem certain the striker will leave – possibly even before this weekend’s clash with Wycombe Wanderers.

“We’re between a rock and a hard place,” added Martin.

“However, for the moment no decision has been made and whatever decision the manager and board comes to, it will serve the best interests of the club.”