SOUTHEND United have rejected an improved offer from Rochdale for striker Stephen Humphrys, Echosport understands.

The 22-year-old, who played the final 19 minutes of Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Gillingham in the Carabao Cup, is believed to be keen on leaving Blues.

But the Roots Hall hierarchy remain keen on keeping him at the club and have opted to knock back another bid, the size of which is unknown at this stage.

Humphrys joined the Shrimpers from Fulham in January 2019 and has scored 10 goals in 34 appearances.