Exciting times ahead – for Southend United (Image: Focus Images)

Southend United have confirmed that contracts have been exchanged between Ron Martin and the consortium set to take control of the club. 

Australian Justin Rees, the man leading the takeover, has been in attendance at recent games as the deal has edged closer.

Confirmation of the exchange of the contracts came moments before the Shrimpers’ game at Kidderminster Harriers where they ran out as 2-1 victors after goals from Oli Coker and Nathan Ralph.

A club statement on their website read: ‘The sale is conditional upon Southend Council’s approval of certain property transactions that are required to facilitate the Club staying at Roots Hall. Those terms have been agreed and we expect the Club ownership will formally transfer in early 2024.

Ron and Justin Rees will work together on operational aspects for this interim period prior to formal completion.’

The Shrimpers, who currently sit in 14th in the Vanarama National League following a ten-point deduction at the start of the season, are expected to see their transfer embargo lifted next week having not been able to sign any players since September of last year.

However, Kevin Maher brought back Henry Sandat prior to the win over Kidderminster on a one-month loan deal from Sky Bet Championship side Hull City. The 18-year-old departed South-East Essex in the summer after coming through the youth academy. 

The club also thanked the fans for their continued support during a troubled time.

‘During the sale process the club has conducted parallel discussions with the National League and HMRC, and anticipate the transfer embargo being lifted next week.

We would like to put on record our sincere thanks to the National League for the cooperation they’ve shown throughout this period.

This has been a long process and the Club wishes to thank all concerned for their assistance in help finalise the transaction.

A special mention must also go to our incredible staff, on and off the pitch, for their resilience and perseverance in representing us all with such distinction.

To the fans, we thank you for your unwavering support, it has meant so much to us all.’

Exciting times ahead for the Shrimpers who will be eager to kick-on in the second half of the season when the embargo is lifted.

Southend now have a double-header against Barnet coming up – they are making the trip to the Hive on Boxing Day before the Bees visit Roots Hall four days later.