THE Kimura led group are edging closer to buying Southend United.

The group -which is headed by Simon Jackson and Kris Tremaine – as well as members from Integral Sports Management – have been in discussions to buy the Shrimpers for several weeks.

And they have now been sent the fit and proper check papers from the Football Association.

The group will now carry out due diligence on the club but Jackson hinted a deal was close by posting the Blues crest onto his Instagram page alongside a handshake emoji and the word wallop!

Progress has certainly been made but the deal is not expected to be completed imminently.

Hollywood actor Ray Winstone could be placed on the club’s board if and when the transaction is completed.

The group are keen to take on plans for the new stadium at Fossetts Farm and will look to keep the club’s academy going.

Controversial chairman Ron Martin put the Shrimpers up for sale in March after 25 years at the Roots Hall helm.

Martin has struggled to finance the club and some staff at the club are still waiting for wages as far back as March.

Blues have also been in a transfer embargo since September due to money owed to HMRC and boss Kevin Maher cannot offer contracts to any players until the restrictions are removed.

The club also have until July 12 to pay off an outstanding tax bill of £250,000 after surviving another winding up petition last month.