SOUTHEND United manager Sol Campbell says the Shrimpers are not allowed to add to their squad.
Blues have been in talks to sign ex Macclesfield Town duo Theo Vassell and Emmanuel Osadebe and goalkeeper Ted Smith.
But Campbell cannot make new signings as things stand.
"We can’t bring anyone else in, we’re not allowed to," said Campbell.
"It’s with people above me and that’s the situation.
"My hands are tied and I can’t do anything about it."
The Shrimpers allowed eight players to leave the club during the January transfer window.
And Campbell remains frustrated no new players arrived in the opposite direction.
"The January transfer window didn’t go well, at all," said Campbell.
"That’s not down to me.
"It’s the people above me who control that and it was disappointing we didn’t bring anyone in.
"I understand there are financial situations and I get you have to balance the books but we can’t bring anyone in and when it’s all controlled above you you can’t really do anything about it.
"You have to utilise the academy."
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