Gillingham boss Mark Stimson admits the club may struggle to sign Kevin Maher on a permanent basis if clubs in League One make a move for him.The 31-year-old - who spent two months on loan at Priestfield at the end of last season - has been training with the relegated Kent club since being released by Southend last month, and Stimson has made little secret of his desire to sign the midfielder permanently.

But the Gills boss revealed talks with the player this week did not lead to a formal offer - although he insists they will be given the chance to talks terms.

Stimson told Kent on Sunday: "We have had a chat and he is open to options. He said obviously we will be a club he would be interested in but we didn't get down to talking about offers.

"We have been honest with each other. Kevin has said if he does start negotiating with any other club he would let us know so we could put in an offer as well.

"Even if a League One club came in for him he would still speak to us, but I'm not sure if we would have a chance if that happened."

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