Southend United have failed to bring transfer target Paul Ifill to Roots Hall.

The former Millwall winger had been on the wanted list of Shrimpers boss Steve Tilson.

But the Championship strugglers eventually lost out to Crystal Palace who have now completed the £750,000 switch.

"Paul was someone we certainly looked at bringing to the football club," confirmed Tilson.

"We made an enquiry about him but could not afford the fee or his wages and it's difficult bringing people in."

A lack of funds could also stop the Seasiders signing Motherwell forward Scott McDonald as the Scottish Premier League side are believed to want between £500,000 and £600,000 for his services.

But Tilson will not give up on the chase for new players.

"I'm working hard to try and get people in and will continue to do so," he said.

However, one player who will not be arriving during the January transfer window is Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Leon Clarke.

The forward, who Tilson tried to sign on loan last season, has been made available by the Moilineux side but the Seasiders chief is no longer interested in the 21-year-old.

"Leon isn't one we're looking at," he said.