Gillingham could see two of their prize assets leave for big money before the start of the season.

Both Jack Payne and Paulo Gazzaniga stayed at home while the Gills embarked on a training trip to France.

The pair (pictured after last season's game at Leyton Orient) are understood to have been subject to serious transfer enquiries from teams from the higher echelons of the football pyramid.

Boss Martin Allen left negotiations in the hands of director of football Andy Hessenthaler and chairman Paul Scally. Big money will be requested for both.

Allen said: "That was being dealt with just before we went away and while we were away. There is nothing confirmed either way."

Payne has been regularly watched by scouts since breaking into the first team in 2008. The 20-year-old extended his contract with the Gills last November until 2015. Peterborough United are believed to have made a bid.

The Cliffe-based youngster, a product of Gills’ youth academy, has made 92 appearances for the club.

Gillingham are, meanwhile, hoping to tie up a deal which sees Gazzaniga – under contract for another season – depart and return on a season-long loan.

Allen has yet to make a move himself in the transfer market but said: "We are getting closer to making some signings. It is all coming on nicely. I don’t know if the extra transfer fees from those players would have a significant difference to my budget."

Picture: Barry Goodwin

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