SOUTHEND United are close to completing a swoop for a striker.

Blues boss Chris Powell is keen to add to his attacking options.

And rumours are rife the Shrimpers chief is currently in talks with Stephen Humphrys, who spent the first half of this season on loan at Scunthorpe United from Fulham.

The 21-year-old scored five goals in 20 appearances while with the Iron but has now headed back to Craven Cottage.

Humphrys, who was also a target for Blues in the summer, has had loan spells with Shrewsbury Town and Rochdale during his career.

In total, he has scored 11 goals in 56 appearances but his arrival would provide the Shrimpers with a huge boost as boss Powell is currently short of striking options with Tom Hopper sidelined for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Shawn McCoulsky also had his loan spell from Bristol City terminated in order for him to join Forest Green Rovers.