Southend United boss Alan Little revealed today that he is very close to bringing a new midfield man to Roots Hall.

The Shrimpers chief is confident of capturing a new face over the next couple of days, who would be in line to make a Southend debut at Little's former club York City this Friday.

"It's general knowledge that I'm looking to strengthen our midfield and I hope to tie up a deal sometime this week," Little said.

Blues' manager is believed to be chasing two men but was remaining tight-lipped about either player's name.

But he did confirm that one of his targets is a 23-year-old who is currently on the books of a Second Division club, with more than 100 league games under his belt, and the other is plying his trade in Scotland.

"I'm hoping to bring one of these players to Roots Hall on a temporary basis before deciding whether to take the plunge," said Little.

"Both of these lads are good solid players but I must make sure I make the right decision as money is tight and I have to spend it wisely."

Little said he would be talking to the Second Division midfielder today, who he hoped to bring to Roots Hall on a month's loan with a view to a permanent move.

"A fee will be set between the two clubs before the player arrives at Roots Hall and if he does well for us during his loan period we will buy him," said Little.

"But first I have to find out if he wants to come and play for Southend, which should hopefully be clearer by this evening.

"This lad is a box-to-box midfielder who comes highly recommended and I'm hopeful he will want to throw his all in with us."

Little said he would also be keeping tabs on his other target north of the border as well as Blackpool midfielder Steve Bushell, who Blues have failed to land twice this season with six-figure bids.

Bushell played in the Tangerines' 3-1 FA Cup Third Round defeat at Arsenal last night and Little admitted he is a player he greatly admires.

"Steve is a strong player who I would love to have at Roots Hall, but Blackpool value him highly and won't sell," Little added.

"But we will continue to monitor his progress keenly as things change very quickly in football."

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