Southend United chairman Ron Martin has hit back at Grays Athletic claims over a possible sell on clause in Shrimpers striker Freddy Eastwood's contract.

Grays believe they have an agreement with the Championship club which entitles them to a percentage of any transfer fee accepted for the £3million rated hot-shot.

But Martin today hit back at those suggestions and confirmed there was nothing in writing between the two clubs.

"I'm sure this is the Grays chairman (Mick Woodward) wishing he had not sold Freddy to us when he did," said Martin.

"It's wishful thinking on their behalf as well because there is no sell on clause in Freddy's contract."

Eastwood, 23, has produced a string of fine displays since signing for the Shrimpers in October 2004, scoring 60 goals in two and half seasons which have helped Southend win two promotions.

That has established the Basildon based forward as one of the hottest properties outside of the Premiership with West Ham, Fulham and Watford all rumoured to be monitoring his progress.

Despite the continued speculation, Martin again reiterated that Eastwood would not be leaving Roots Hall during the current transfer window.

"Freddy's not for sale, it's as simple as that," he said.

"Grays did well from us when we signed him and after Freddy had got goals while on loan they put their price up.

"At the same time the sell on clause which had earlier been discussed was taken out. I'm sure they regret that now but that's football."

Woodward refuses to accept that though and is prepared to take the case to court in a bid to get his hands on the money.

"We are entitled to a percentage of any deal," he said.

"Southend have denied it because now they are big time Charlies as they are in the Championship and they think they can get away with it, but trust me they will not.

"Please believe me. If Freddy goes from Southend we will get our percentage.

"Their chairman has tried to get out of it but the deal was done in front of witnesses. "

Woodward wouldn't expand on whether he had a written or verbal agreement with Southend, but insisted it was a binding transaction.

"I've got three recognised witness to the deal who were there when it was done," he added.

"They have no say in Grays or with Southend but they will say what happened if and when we have to sort this out legally."