SOUTHEND United striker Harry Cardwell is wanted by Forest Green Rovers, Echosport understands.

Cardwell top scored with 18 goals for the Shrimpers last season and has netted once in five outings this time around.

His form and work-rate has now alerted big spending Rovers who were relegated from League Two last season.

Cardwell signed a new contract with the Shrimpers in the summer but the deal is understood to include a release clause.

The 27-year-old has netted 29 goals in 86 games for Blues since joining in January 2022.