SOUTHEND United manager Phil Brown is in talks with a full-back and a winger as he bids to bolster his squad for next season.

Brown, who has also held discussions with a goalkeeper and a striker, is keen to bring the two targets to the club.

And the Blues boss believes he is now close to making his first signing of the summer.

“Hopefully we’ll have something to report soon,” confirmed Brown.

“We’re in talks with a full-back and a winger, which I would like to think are going well.

“We will continue the discussions and hope to be able to complete the moves.”

Brown again chose not to name the players in question but Echosport can reveal the full-back was a regular starter in League One last season.

However, the winger did not feature quite so regularly for his club in League One and is now available on a free transfer.

Brown also expects to hear back from his main striking target today.

The Blues boss has met with the forward - who played on loan in League One last season - for two rounds of talks.

But the Shrimpers are facing stiff competition to secure his signature with at least six other clubs also trying to sign the player.