STEVENAGE have entered the race to sign Freddy Eastwood.

The striker ended the season back on loan at Southend United and Blues have been in talks with the 28-year-old about making a permanent switch to Roots Hall.

But the Echo understands that League One side Stevenage are now also chasing his signature.

The Broadwall Way club have already signed midfielder Anthony Grant on a free transfer from Blues.

And they are now keen to also add Eastwood to their squad following his release from Coventry City.

Eastwood shone during his first spell with Southend, scoring 65 goals in 135 games as Steve Tilson’s side secured back to back promotions.

However, his career stalled upon leaving Blues in the summer of 2007 and he endured unsuccessful periods with both Wolverhampton Wanderers and Coventry before heading back to Southend on loan in March.

He scored twice in nine games during the run in to the end of the season but was not at full fitness due to a knee injury.