Gillingham have opened negotiations with Millwall striker John Marquis over a permanent deal.

Marquis has been in prolific form for the Gills, scoring six goals in eight appearances.

Those goals have alerted a number of other clubs to Marquis’ availability next season but Gills boss Justin Edinburgh hopes they will be front of the queue.

“John is enjoying his football and playing with a smile on his face, which works in our favour,” said the Gills boss.

Edinburgh has contacted Marquis’ agent with a view to making the player’s deal at Priestfield permanent.

He is currently on loan with the Gills until the end of the season and Millwall boss Ian Holloway has already reportedly stated that he doesn’t want Marquis back.

The player himself recently said his time with Millwall was probably up and the Gills are free to negotiate a deal with the player, who is out of contract in the summer.

No fee would be payable if Millwall release the player, which seems likely, although the Championship club could offer Marquis a new deal in a bid to claim compensation as he is under the age of 24. Any fee, however, would be minimal.

The Gills are still in negotiations with 14-goal striker Cody McDonald and Edinburgh believes that deal could be finalised soon.

Speaking on Tuesday, he said: “I am hoping by the end of the week that it will be completed.”