TORQUAY United have emerged as the favourites to sign Craig Easton, if the Southend United skipper fails to agree a new contract at Roots Hall.

The 32-year-old midfielder has so far failed to put pen to paper on another deal with Blues.

And the Echo understands the Gulls are now leading the race to secure his signature.

New Torquay manager Martin Ling worked with Easton during their two years together at Leyton Orient and he is now believed to be keen on also taking him to Plainmoor.

Easton is available on a free transfer after rejecting Southend’s first offer of a contract but remaining with the club is still his number one option.

But it is becoming increasingly likely that he will be leaving Roots Hall as Blues continue to hold transfer talks with other midfielders.

They remain in discussions with Crystal Palace’s Alassane N’Diaye over a season-long loan switch and have also contacted another ball-winner who was playing in League Two last season.

FULL STORY IN TUESDAY'S ECHO