Luton face competition for ex-Brighton defender Rea

The 21-year-old, who spent the last two months of the season on loan at Kenilworth Road, revealed on social media he had been released by the Seagulls.

Hatters boss Nathan Jones has made no secret of his admiration for the Irish U21 centre back, and when asked about a permanent deal recently, said: “I hope so as I think they’ve done well, there’s scope for them to learn too.

“Glen Rea’s come in and he’s a young lad, learning his trade, eager, keen, a bit naive at times, but has done superbly well.”

But Rea is also wanted by League One Southend, where he spent the early part of the campaign, playing 16 times, with Shrimpers manager Phil Brown revealing to the Southend Echo he was meeting the player and his agent for talks over a return to Roots Hall.