Laurent, 22, scored for Blues in a behind closed doors friendly win against Fulham on Tuesday afternoon.

And the former FSV Mainz 05 player could be joining United ahead of Saturday's game with Walsall after impressing the Roots Hall coaching staff.

"Francis did well against Fulham," boss Tilson told southendunited.co.uk this afternoon.

"He hasn't done a pre-season but he has something different to what we already have at the Football Club.

"We are looking to do something short term, probably until the end of the season.

"It is a bit of a gamble as he is an unknown quantity but from what we have seen in training and the Fulham match he has something about him.

"He is a big centre-forward but not the type you would expect to win loads in the air because he can play.

"I'd liken him a bit to Kanu in that he has very good feet for a big man.

"The deal has to be right for both parties though and there is a bit of work to do, it might be a case of taking a little gamble because sometimes they pay off."

Laurent spent last season with German Bundesliga Two side FSV Mainz 05 where he made six appearances before becoming available on a free transfer.

The 6' 3" forward has also spent time with German club SV Eintracht Trier 05 and French sides Sochaux and Beauvais.

Laurent also had a recent trial with Coca-Cola League Two side Barnet.

Meanwhile, Tilson also confirmed that he hoped to arrange a loan deal for Portsmouth's French midfielder Jean-François Christophe who has been on trial for the past week.

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