Southend United are being linked with Plymouth Argyle's 20-year-old centre-half Adam Barrett.

Reports in the west country suggest the defender was pencilled in as a trialist for Blues' cancelled reserve match at Bournemouth on Wednesday afternoon, which has fallen victim to the weather.

Barrett, whose family live in Southend, made 51 league and cup appearances for the Third Division Pilgrims last term and scored three times, including a goal at Roots Hall during a 2-1 defeat for the Devon outfit.

However, new Plymouth boss Paul Sturrock has decided to offload the youngster who was born in Dagenham and signed a two-year contract at Home Park over the summer.

A source close to the club said: "It is a big surprise that Adam has been transfer-listed as he has been one of Plymouth's better players.

"He is desperate for first team football and would welcome a move to Southend to be closer to his family."

Plymouth are expected to let the stopper, who was also on Leyton Orient's books, leave on a free transfer. He has played 11 games for the Pilgrims this term.

By Bernie Friend

Reporter's e-mail: bernie.friend@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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