THREE League One clubs are fighting it out to sign Southend United striker Gary Hooper, forcing his price tag upto £100,000.

The transfer listed 20-year-old has failed to consistently impress for the Shrimpers since signing after being released by Grays Athletic two seasons ago.

But a successful loan spell at League Two Hereford United, where he scored 12 goals in 19 games, at the end of last term has attracted interest from elsewhere.

And Cheltenham Town, Stockport and Scunthorpe United are now battling to secure his services.

"Gary's availability has alerted a number of clubs and these three are all keen on signing him," said a source close to the Seasiders.

"It's good because it means his price has gone up and that will boost the transfer kitty the club has to bring in the players they want for next season.

"That includes Charlie Mulgrew, who Blues certainly want to bring back to Roots Hall on a permanent basis after the way he played on loan while with the club last year."

Hereford, who Hooper helped to win promotion to League One during his spell at Edgar Street, are also interested in signing the former Grays Athletic front-runner but they are believed to be struggling to match the offers of the other clubs.

He will therefore have to choose between Cheltenham, Scunthorpe and Stockport and will hope the change can kick-start his career after a disappointing stint with Southend.

Hooper struggled to hold down a regular place in Steve Tilson's side and scored just four times in 44 appearances.

Another of Southend's transfer listed forwards, Charlie MacDonald, is also on the brink of leaving Blues to join Brentford in a deal worth around £50,000.