Barnard has scored 15 League One goals this season

Southampton and Leeds United are leading the battle for Southend striker Lee Barnard, BBC Sport understands.

Leeds are thought to have made a bid of £175,000 for the 17-goal frontman, but the Saints are favourites to land him

And Southend manager Steve Tilson told BBC Essex: "If he goes to one of the bigger clubs then he could set himself up for life.

"He's been great for us but you can't stand in someone's way if they have the chance of a big move."

Leeds manager Simon Grayson is not willing to say whether they have bid for Barnard but he did tell BBC Radio Leeds: "I do all my business behind closed doors but someone who's scored 17 goals in a season is a decent commodity to have."

I'm not prepared to comment at the moment but he's a player we've reported an interest in Southampton boss Alan Pardew

The former Tottenham trainee, who made three Premier League appearances, joined Southend in 2008 and has scored 37 goals in 85 appearances.

The 25-year-old had loan spells at Exeter, Stevenage, Leyton Orient, Northampton and Crewe when he was at Spurs.

Southampton were also believed to be interested in Ipswich's Kevin Lisbie, who is on loan at Colchester, but now appear to have turned their attentions towards Barnard.

"I'm not prepared to comment at the moment but he's a player we've reported an interest in," manager Alan Pardew told BBC Radio Solent.

Saints are currently without the services of former Republic of Ireland striker David Connolly with a groin problem.

Pardew has also hinted that he is keen to give a rest to top scorer Rickie Lambert at some stage.

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