SOUTHEND United are closing in on a loan deal for Sheffield Wednesday’s young striker Caolan Lavery.

The 20-year-old, who has yet to make a senior first team appearances in his career, looks set to sign for Blues until the end of the season.

But he may not be fit enough to figure straight away as the youngster is currently recovering from a slight hamstring injury.

“Talks are continuing and everything is very close to being sorted out with Caolan now,” said a source close to Southend.

“Everything could be completed before tomorrow’s game at Chesterfield but he may not be fit enough to play.

“Caolan is currently fighting his way back from a hamstring problem but is running again now and isn’t far off being ready to be involved.

“He’s a good young prospect who is highly regarded at Sheffield Wednesday.

“And Blues are pleased to have brought him in due to Britt Assombalonga’s injury.

“There is no player similar to Britt and he’s been missed during his time out so that’s what led to Caolan coming in.”

Blues do have Gavin Tomlin, Barry Corr, Neil Harris, Freddy Eastwood and Elliot Benyon striving for selection in attack.

But boss Paul Sturrock has still made a move for Lavery.

The Canadian born forward joined Sheffield Wednesday last year after rejecting the offer of a new deal from Ipswich Town in late 2011.

The striker represented Canada at under 17 level before switching his allegiance to Northern Ireland who he has represented at under 19 and under 21 age groups.