Former Gillingham midfielder Craig Stone could be on his way to Blue Square Premier Ebbsfleet.

The 19-year-old was released by Gills manager Mark Stimson at the end of last season, and admitted he has held talks with the Fleet.

Stone said: "They're a club that has shown a bit of interest in me. I was born in Gravesend and spent a lot of my time there."

After speaking to manager Liam Daish, Stone was impressed by what the former Republic of Ireland international had to say.

Stone added: "I was very impressed with them and he seemed like a good manager. He wants to be in the league next season and to be pushing on.

"I know a few of the players there and it is a good set-up. They did well last season after finishing quite high and winning the FA Trophy.

"Ebbsfleet are a club that's going in the right direction but nothing is concrete."

Stone refused to rule out a move elsewhere but admitted the locality of the Fleet could make them a stronger proposition.

He explained: "Moving away would not be a problem to me. That's football and you have to be prepared to do it. Ideally at this stage of my career I'd stay local and play games."