Southend United has signed Bristol City's teenage goalkeeper Joe Duncan on a season-long loan for the 2026/27 season.

What happened?

The 19-year-old shot-stopper is a product of the Bristol City Academy and joined the club as an Under-11, before signing his first professional contract in 2023.

Duncan received his first international call-up in 2024 when he was selected for Jamaica's Under-23 squad, and this summer he trained with the Reggae Boyz' senior team during a training camp held in London.

Why it matters for Southend

Goalkeeper coach Pat Mountain said: “We are really excited for Joe and he will benefit from the experience of being away from Bristol City for the first time in a full-time professional environment.” Southend United won the FA Trophy at Wembley last season, as well as finishing sixth in the division, competing in the play-offs – only to narrowly lose 1-0 to Scunthorpe United, with a recent form of 1W-2D-2L in their last five games.

What comes next?

First Team Manager Michael Skubala added: “This is a great move for Joe, who is a big part of the excellent goalkeeping group at the club.” With 83 goals scored and 47 conceded, giving them a +36 goal difference, Southend United is currently 27 points behind leaders York, and their last result was a 0-0 draw against Wealdstone on 2026-05-17. Sporting Director James Ellis added: “We are really pleased with Joe’s progress, and we wish them and Joe a great season ahead,” as Southend United looks to improve their standing in the National League.