Gillingham have reportedly set their sights on securing an international defender, ahead of the transfer window closing on Monday evening.
The League Two side currently find themselves 17th in the table after picking up just three victories since the end of September and look likely to be staying in the fourth tier once again unless they can change their fortunes around quickly.
The Gills are also conceding over one goal per 90 minutes throughout the campaign thus far and are therefore likely to want to consider defensive reinforcements.
According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Gillingham are lining up a move for New Zealand international defender George Stanger before the window slams shut next week.
Stanger is currently contracted to Scottish Championship side Ayr United but is set to become a free agent at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
How has he fared so far this season?
The 24-year-old has been a regular feature for Ayr United in all competitions this season, making a combined 30 appearances for the Scottish side.
During that time, Stanger has contributed to two goals including a goal against Hamilton Academical on the opening day of the Scottish Championship season.
He’s made over 100 first-team appearances in Scotland so far for the likes of Hamilton, Dumbarton and Alloa Athletic as well as featuring at youth level regularly for New Zealand.
What sort of deal do the Gills want?
Due to Stanger’s contract situation and the fact the two clubs play in different countries, Gillingham are able to sign the defender on a pre-contract agreement, meaning he would see out the season in Scotland before linking up with the club in the summer.
However, with Gillingham’s ongoing defensive woes, it is highly likely that the League Two side would want a deal for now rather than wait six more months.
O’Rourke hasn’t specified the nature of the deal so it remains to be seen as to whether a deal can be agreed and more importantly what sort of deal it is.