SOUTHEND United boss Kevin Maher says the club’s long-standing transfer embargo is close to being lifted.

The Blues boss has been unable to add to his squad with contracted permanent players since September 2022.

But the club’s new owners are now working towards the transfer ban being lifted.

And Maher believes it will not take much longer.

“I believe it’s close and the club are doing everything they can,” said Maher.

The consortium are in a process of trying to get everything done.

“It’s not easy but hopefully we’ll have good news soon.”

The Shrimpers are expected to sign a midfielder from a National League South club.

But Maher is fully aware Blues need to bring in another striker with top scorer Harry Cardwell still out with a knee injury.

“Cards is a huge loss,” said Maher.

“He was top scorer in the league for us before he had to come out.

“We’ll look at it daily but we know it’s an area we need another body in.

“How quickly that can happen we’ll have to wait and see.”