SOUTHEND United look set for a timely cash boost — courtesy of a big money move involving their former striker Gary Hooper.

The 22-year-old, who has been a revelation since leaving Blues to join Scunthorpe United, is being strongly linked to a £2million switch to Scottish Premier League giants Celtic.

And that would see Southend receive around £350,000 due to a sell-on clause in his contract.

Hooper has also been linked to a number of other clubs, with Wigan, Wolves and Derby County all interested.

But interim Parkhead manager Neil Lennon is keen to make the 22-year-old one of his first signings for the club if, as expected, he is confirmed as their permanent manager in the coming days.

Hooper is also believed to have been shown around Celtic’s Lennoxtown training complex and Lennon watched Hooper in Scunthorpe’s final two home games of the season.

As a result, Iron manager Nigel Adkins admits he faces a struggle to hold onto the former Grays Athletic forward, who he signed from Southend for £175,000 in the summer of 2008.

“There has been a lot of interest in Gary all season — a lot of interest,” confirmed Atkins. “A lot of clubs have been watching him all season. I know Celtic have been down on numerous occasions.

“But Gary can handle the attention because he is a sensible kid.

“I don’t know anything about him being up in Glasgow for a look around because our chairman is dealing with any interest that comes along.

“But I do know there has been plenty.”

Hooper has netted 50 goals in 95 games since joining Scunthorpe and helped the club win promotion from League One in his first season as he netted 30 goals.

A further 20 followed last season in the Championship but such form is in contrast to his time at Southend where he scored just four times in 44 appearances.

Blues declined to comment about Hooper’s future. But, after their well documented financial problems last season, such a large sum will be gratefully received as they look to bolster their squad ahead of next season back in League Two.

Southend could also receive a further cash boost as they also have a 20 per cent sell-on clause with their ex-midfielder Nicky Bailey, who now captains Charlton Athletic and has been linked with a number of Championship clubs.