SOUTHEND United manager Kevin Bond has denied reports linking Charlie Kelman with a switch to Reading.

The 17-year-old striker is rumoured to be attracting interest from the Royals.

But, when asked by the Echo, Bond seemed unaware of the rumours.

"That's news to me," said Bond.

Kelman came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall and scored once in 11 appearances for the first team last term.