Southend United's star striker Freddy Eastwood is ready to quit the Shrimpers in order to fulfil his Premiership dream.

The 23-year-old forward has bagged 59 goals in two years with Steve Tilson's side and that has attracted interest from a series of top sides.

Aston Villa and Newcastle are the latest clubs to be linked with the highly rated hot-shot, who cost £40,000 from non-league Grays but could now be worth as much as £3million.

And Eastwood hopes to make the move up when the transfer window reopens in January.

"Southend have always said to me that they won't stand in my way if a Premiership club comes in for me and hopefully my chance will come in January," said the striker.

"I've proved to myself that I can play at that level and I don't think it will be that much of a step up for me. I want to play in the Premiership though and I can definitely cope with being a star."

However, Blues chairman Ron Martin denied Eastwood's claims and is still determined to keep hold of his prized asset who has now become a household name in the game since scoring a stunning free kick to help Southend beat Manchester United in the Carling Cup.

"I have never had that conversation with Freddy," he said.

"We want him to be a long term part of our plans and are keen to improve his contract."