SWINDON Town have tabled an offer for Southend United transfer target Theo Robinson.

The speedy striker impressed while on loan at the Shrimpers from Watford during the second half of last season.

But it is the Robins who have moved first in the race to land the 20-year-old on a permanent basis.

“Swindon have been alerted to Theo’s availability and are keen to bring him to the club for next season,” a source close to the County Ground outfit confirmed to the Echo.

“They were impressed by him during his spell with Southend and an offer has been made. Now they are waiting to see what happens and if it is accepted.”

It is understood that Watford will allow Robinson to leave if they receive the right offer but, although they are keen to bring him back to Roots Hall, Blues have yet to make a firm bid.

Robinson, who also spent time on loan at Hereford United before coming to Shrimpers, where he scored seven times in 21 games, has already made public his desire to be playing first team football next term and refused to rule out a move back to Southend when asked last week.

Manager Steve Tilson is also known to want Robinson in his attack next season.

But it remains to be seen if the Shrimpers — who spent just £10,000 on players during the previous campaign — can match the asking price which has so far remained undisclosed, and then also agree personal terms with the player.

Swindon’s involvement has also added extra uncertainty to Robinson’s future at Roots Hall, especially as the Robins’ finances could well be boosted by the departure of top goalscorer Simon Cox with Bolton Wanderers believed to be among those interested.