Huddersfield Town appear to be closing in on Southend United midfielder Jack Payne.
Sources in the South suggest the clubs are in advanced talks over a fee for the 21-year-old.
Payne is out of contract at Roots Hall, but because of his age (under 24) and the offer of a new deal, Southend are due compensation.
If the clubs can’t agree and the player signs for Town, the transfer would go to tribunal.
Payne, noted for his bustling approach and scoring prowess, played 35 games for League I Southend this season, netting nine times.
Originally from Tower Hamlets in London, he has made 88 appearances in all, with 17 goals.
READ MORE:
READ MORE:
A Southend youth product, his debut came as a starter in the Capital One Cup first-round home defeat by Yeovil Town in August 2013.
The Shrimpers won promotion that season, with Payne making 11 League II outings, all from the bench, and one as a substitute in the play-offs.
