SOUTHEND United are close to signing a young striker on loan from Tottenham Hotspur.

Shrimpers boss Chris Powell – who came back to the club as manager last week – is keen to add to his forward options.

And it appears his first signing will be a striker who has played in the League Cup for Spurs.

Powell – who has until Wednesday to add to his squad before the transfer window closes – was working as a scout at Tottenham before opting to come back to Blues.