The extent of Gillingham’s January transfer budget could depend on what happens to former captain Andrew Crofts.

Mark Stimson, the Gills manager, will be looking to boost his squad when the transfer window re-opens in the new year and a permanent move from the club for Crofts would free up some extra cash.

Crofts is on loan with Peterborough in a deal which expires on January 31. The League 1 side are currently playing half of the player’s wages and if they, or another side, sign him up permanently it will give Stimson the funds to bring in some fresh talent.

“I would like it to be busy (when the transfer window opens),” said Stimson. “But I haven’t spoken to the chairman about the finances yet and a lot depends on what happens with Andrew Crofts. We’ve got a few players we would like to speak to.”

Stimson will also be hoping to reap the benefits of the FA cup tie with Aston Villa which is expected to bring in around £250,000 for the club.

The Gills boss is still keeping an eye on experienced midfielder Micah Hyde, who recently left Peterborough, partly because Crofts was keeping him out of the team.

He is staying with the club over the Christmas period on trial but fellow trialists Joe Howe and Lachlan Cahill have departed.