Southend United have secured the signing of 21-year-old Kyle McAdam on a two-year contract, adding pace and aggression to their left flank options. McAdam, a versatile player capable of operating both as a full-back and wing-back, arrives following a season spent on loan with League One sides Mansfield Town and Northampton Town, where he made 23 league appearances.

The defender was released by his former club, Nottingham Forest, at the end of last season. Speaking after his signing, McAdam expressed enthusiasm for his new challenge at Southend, emphasizing his intent to contribute both defensively and offensively. “I’m excited for the season ahead," he said. "Fans can expect energy, aggression and directness from me. I want to get forward and be involved in attacking play.”

Southend manager Kieron Dyer highlighted that McAdam had been on the club’s radar for some time but that they had to wait for his availability after he trialed with another English Football League club. “As soon as he became available, we were delighted to get him,” Dyer said. “He fits the profile – great in attack and very direct.”

McAdam’s arrival comes as Southend bid farewell to Harry Boyes, the 24-year-old defender who moved to League Two newcomers York City for an undisclosed fee. Boyes, signed from Sheffield United last summer, had been a key player for Southend, missing only two league fixtures and contributing during their successful FA Trophy campaign by scoring in the penalty shoot-out victory over Wealdstone at Wembley.

With McAdam now joining the squad, Southend looks to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season while maintaining an attacking threat from wide areas.