THREE League One clubs have entered the race to sign centre-back Jakub Sokolik but boss Phil Brown is still confident of bringing him to Southend United.

Brown is due to meet with the former Liverpool defender today to discuss a permanent switch to the Shrimpers.

And the Blues manager is not too concerned by the added competition to secure Sokolik’s signature.

“I’m still positive he will join us, Jakub is positive about it too and so is his agent so we’re still very hopeful it will happen,” said Brown.

“I am meeting with him today as he’s just returned from going back home to the Czech Republic to see his family and we will be looking to advance our talks to the next stage.”

Sokolik impressed while on loan with Southend at the end of last season from Liverpool, making 12 appearances as the Shrimpers worked their way in to the League Two play-offs before losing to Burton Albion.

Sokolik’s performances caught the eye of a trio of unknown clubs at a higher level.

But Brown has urged the 20-year-old to stay with the Shrimpers.

“The grass isn’t always greener on the other side and Jakub knows what he has with us,” said Brown.

“He knows he gets on well with me and the rest of the lads here, he knows the club and he knows he’s going to games.

“He could opt to go somewhere else not get on with the manager and not end up playing which is the last thing he needs.

“He knows he needs to kick start his career and that can happen with us.

“He did very well for us and seems very keen to be part of what we are trying to achieve here so hopefully we can still get it over the line.”