Southend United’s preparations for the 2026/27 National League season are in full flow, with the next piece of their puzzle being identified, ahead of a potential move.
The Shrimpers have already secured six new signings so far this summer, with key additions including Anthony Hartigan (Barnet), Josh Popoola (Maidenhead) and Lewis Twamley (Merthyr Town) giving them an ideal start to the summer.
Over the summer thus far, the club have been prone to losing key players with the likes of Gus Scott-Morriss, Keenan Appiah-Forson and Collin Andeng-Ndi already departing.
One of these departures is set to be replaced by the National League side, ahead of their opening pre-season friendly in the coming days following their return to training.
Southend eye shot-stopper
As mentioned, Southend lost Andeng-Ndi earlier this month to League One side Peterborough United for an undisclosed compensation fee – leaving them noticeably short between the sticks for next season.
However, despite there being several names available right now including Harrison Male and Jack Sims, none of those are EFL-proven, unlike the player that has been linked to the club.
According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Southend United are eyeing a move for departing Forest Green Rovers goalkeeper Harry Isted.
Isted is a free agent after failing to agree a new contract with Robbie Savage’s side, despite being key for them last season. He was one of two players that underwent contract talks, but evidentially there was an agreement for all parties to to their separate ways.
He registered 30 league appearances for Forest Green Rovers last season, helping them to reach the play-off places whilst also keeping five clean sheets.
Would Isted be a good addition for Southend?
The 29-year-old is EFL proven during stints with Barnsley and Charlton Athletic as well as several others and played a key role for Forest Green last season.
Southend have had permanent goalkeepers over the last few seasons, and signing another protects them against the risk of recalls, with the Shrimpers likely to be pushing for promotion next season.
Similarly, recruiting a free agent ensures that the club saves a portion of their transfer budget, which can then be spent on improving other areas of their team.
Isted made the play-off places with Forest Green last season, and though they fell to defeat against eventual runners-up Boreham Wood – the experience of that will benefit the Shrimpers, ensuring that despite losing one shot-stopper, they are gaining another of similar quality.