Southend United manager Steve Wignall revealed today he is close to boosting his Roots Hall firepower by luring a new striker to the club.
The Seasiders' boss has tabled an offer for a forward, who is available on a free transfer, and he expects a concrete answer within the next 48 hours.
"I have spoken to a frontman's representatives and offered them a package for their player," said Wignall.
"It's not a done deal at the moment, because the player is attracting interest from higher division clubs as well.
"But we are the only team to make a firm offer and hopefully that will put us in the driving seat.
"I can't reveal the name of the player at the moment, but if he signs for us it would be a great capture for this club. I expect to hear something within the next 48 hours."
However, there was bad news on the injury front, with talented midfielder Jay Smith, 21, ruled out of the start of the new season.
The former Aston Villa player, who cracked five goals from the centre of the park last term, has been sidelined by a groin problem for two months.
And Wignall added: "Jay is still struggling and has been told he can't do anything for another three months following an MRI scan.
"He's still having problems around his pelvic area, although there is no break, which is good news, and we have arranged for Jay to have a further isotope bone scan."
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Published Thursday, May 22, 2003
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