JONATHAN Forte is close to completing a loan switch to Southend United, but centre-back Chris Barker could be leaving the club.

Shrimpers boss Phil Brown hopes to complete the deal for Forte, a 26-year-old striker, by the end of the week.

But he also confirmed that Barker, who has been Blues’ captain for the past three years, is on trial with Hereford United and could soon be leaving Roots Hall.

“I’ve had a conversation with Chris and explained how we’re moving in a different direction now and that it may be best for him to move on,” said Brown.

“He’s been hanging on to the other players’ coat-tails during pre-season and that’s testament to how hard he works.

“He’s a great lad but we’ll see how he gets on with Hereford and take things from there.

“If he’s still with us by the time we get back from Madrid then he could still have a future with us.

“But we’ll know more about that situation in the next 48 hours and it will be the same with Jonathan, too.”

Barker has made 143 appearances for Southend and scored for Hereford in their 4-0 win against Wellington on Tuesday night.

Forte is also aiming to kick start his career and has previously worked with Brown at Hull City.

The forward has had several loan stints at clubs during his career.

And Brown would love to be able to work with him again.

“I know Jonathan well and he’s someone I would like to bring in,” said Brown.

“He’s left sided, strong and quick and he also has a lot of experience.

“I’d certainly like to bring him to the football club and hope it can be completed soon because a couple of fresh faces would give everyone a lift.”

Forte represented England at under-16, 17 and 18 level before switching to play for Barbados at senior level.

Brown is also still keen on signing Gillingham midfielder Charlie Lee and is confident Michael Timlin will soon sign a new deal to stay with the Shrimpers.