Southend United have failed in a second bid for Barnsley striker Paul Hayes.
The offer, which is believed to be £100,000, has been rejected by the Tykes, who are rumoured to want at least double for the 23-year-old.
2nd Hayes bid knocked back Hayes hails from Wickford and is known to favour a return to his roots.
But Barnsley are not willing to let him go on the cheap.
"Paul is keen on a move but we shall have to wait and see what happens," said a source close to the Shrimpers.
Meanwhile, Southend are still also chasing Cork City striker Roy O'Donovan.
The 21-year-old forward - who was Cork's top scorer with 11 goals last season - is available for £300,000.
But Blues have yet to meet that valuation with their bids, but talks continue between the two clubs.
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