Bolton Wanderers are just one of several clubs who are interested in signing Southend United forward Harry Cardwell, according to a Football Insider report.
Cardwell has been in fine form for The Shrimpers, finding the net on 17 occasions and providing four assists in 37 National League outings.
The 27-year-old is enjoying the most productive season of his career and this form has led to Football League interest in the former Chorley man.
Promotion-chasing Wanderers are joined by fellow League One clubs Oxford United and Exeter City as well as Gillingham of League Two in the race to sign the former Scotland Under 21 international.
Another club reported to be showing an interest is recently relegated Championship outfit Rotherham United. Cardwell is on the radar as The Millers look to build a squad that will lead them back to the second tier.
According to the report, Cardwell is under contract at Roots Hall until the summer of 2026 but has a buy-out clause that will interest his suitors.
The Southend man has played the bulk of his football in the National League system, representing Stockport County among others. He does have some experience in the Football League, having played 37 League Two matches for Grimsby Town between 2017 and 2020.
The striker’s previous best goal-scoring season came during a 13-game spell with Chorley in the National League North, with his seven strikes earning a move to newly relegated Southend.
Now, the Essex club face a fight to keep hold of one of the division’s top marksmen.
Writer’s View
Something has clicked for Cardwell this season, with his goals giving United an outside shot at a playoff place.
Regardless of the outcome of Southend’s season, the striker will find it hard to turn down the opportunity to test himself in League One.
The release clause in his deal will likely see a deal being put together and the Beverley-born forward moving to pastures new.
