Middlesbrough and Bristol City have entered the race to sign Southend youngster, Dru Yearwood according to The Sun's Tom Barclay. 

The journalist also claims that Rotherham United have seen a bid in the region of £200,000 rejected for the 19-year-old, who was impressive in his breakthrough season with the League One club.

Yearwood made 27 league appearances for the Shrimpers as they finished 19th in the League One table last season.

His positive performances seemingly haven't gone unnoticed either, with Middlesbrough and Bristol City being the latest clubs to register their interest in signing him.

Middlesbrough have recently appointed Jonathan Woodgate as their new manager, and he's already stated that he's keen to give young players a chance in the first-team next season.

Yearwood could be one of those players it seems, and the youngster will surely be tempted by a move to the Riverside, with Championship football being offered.

But there will be doubts as to whether he would be a regular for either of the teams interested, which is something he'll have to consider carefully if he wants to progress in the early stages of his professional career.

It surely won't be the last we hear of Yearwood being linked with a move away from Southend, although it remains to be seen as to whether any of the clubs interested will submit a formal approach for his services ahead of next year's campaign.

The Verdict: 

He's a player with real quality.

From what I've seen of him, he seems as though he's got a bright future ahead if a number clubs in the Championship are keeping tabs on him.

Both Middlesbrough and Bristol City could be tempting for him as well, as Rotherham can't offer him Championship football.