by Luke Cawdell

Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler believes young goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga is already a million-pound player.

The Argentine, third in the club’s player-of-the-season awards, arrived on a free in the summer following his release from Spanish side Valencia, and has quickly earned a glowing reputation.

Hessenthaler (pictured with Gazzaniga) is now expecting bids during the close-season for the 19-year-old, but has warned those paying that he will not come cheap.

"He is a million-pound player, without a doubt," Hessenthaler said.

"Teams might make a move in the summer and we wouldn’t stand in anyone’s way. He is a find and they don’t come around very often.

"He is a wonderful kid, a wonderful player and he is a wonderful person.

"He is going to be top-notch and he will play in the Premier League."

The Gills are negotiating a new deal for the keeper despite still having a year on his contract.

Hessenthaler was in Spain last week scouting more possible young talent and has invited a couple of players over for a trial in the hope of finding another Gazzaniga-type star.