SOUTHEND United are in talks to sign right-back Jason Demetriou and goalkeeper Stuart Nelson, Echosport understands.

Demetriou made 57 appearances for Walsall last season while Nelson lined up 51 times between the sticks for Gillingham.

But Blues boss Phil Brown – who also remains in talks with former Gills winger Jermaine McGlashan – believes he is now close to making his first signing of the summer.

“We have a medical lined up for today and hope to be able to announce the signing very soon,” said Brown.

“It’s a full-back who played a lot of games for a team towards the top of League One last season and he would be a very good signing for us.

“Hopefully we can get the Jermaine McGlashan deal done soon but the goalkeeper may take a little bit longer because he’s away on holiday at the moment.

“I don’t want to discuss the targets in public but the goalkeeper’s club have also offered him a contract, so we do have other options lined up if he decides to stay with them.”

Brown will need to sign a new goalkeeper to battle with Ted Smith for a starting slot due to Daniel Bentley’s impending departure.

And 34-year-old Nelson, who has made more than 400 appearances during his career, is currently Brown’s top target.

The Shrimpers chief is also keen to improve defensively after his side conceded 64 goals in their 46 League One games last season.

That has led to him attempting to sign Demetriou, who previously played for Leyton Orient.

However he is believed to be attracting interest from a top club in League Two, while Walsall have also offered him a new contract.