SOUTHAMPTON are now firm favourites to sign Southend United striker Lee Barnard.

The Saints, who have been battling with Leeds United for the forward’s signature, have tabled an offer of £175,000 plus another striker - believed to be Matt Paterson.

Southampton hope to soon complete the deal and Blues boss Steve Tilson, whose side host Wycombe Wanderers at Roots Hall tomorrow, seems resigned to losing his top goalscorer.

“I obviously don’t want Barney to go because he’s been fantastic for me but I don’t think you can stand in his way,” said Tilson.

“Leeds and Southampton have come in for him and he could be made for life with a move like that because I’m sure he would get a good deal.

“He will also be out of contract here in six months time but it would be a huge blow to lose him.

“Barney brings more to the team than just goals because he’s work-rate is top class but I would imagine it’s his goals which would get him a move.”

Barnard has hit the back of the net 17 times already this season but Tilson was keen to stress that Scott Spencer could not be considered as his replacement.

Tilson has yet to decide whether or not to extend Scott Malone’s loan spell from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The second month of the left back’s stay at Roots Hall ends this weekend, but it is not yet known if he will be staying for another four weeks.

Full story in Friday's Echo