Young Albion defender Glen Rea is in talks over a move to Southend.

The Republic of Ireland under-21 international has had loan stints at Roots Hall and with Luton Town this season.

Rea is out of contract with the Seagulls and Southend boss Phil Brown has revealed he is holding talks with the player and his agent today.

Brown said of the 21-year-old: β€œHe’s someone I really rate.”

Albion are expected to release their full retained list by the weekend with senior stars Bruno, Gordon Greer, Inigo Calderon and Bobby Zamora among the players under review.