Gillingham have signed teenage striker Charlie Kelman from QPR.

The highly-rated 19-year-old joins the Gills on loan, with an agreement in place until the end of the season, and the striker will wear the number nine shirt.

Manager Steve Evans told the Gills website: “Charlie is an exciting talent who has a big future at QPR.

“Mark Warburton and Les Ferdinand are big fans of the boy and I must thank them for sanctioning the loan.

“I tried to get the lad in July but I was turned down but, like the mountie, I got my man.

"Our supporters will love this lad, he will be great for us."

Gillingham had been waiting patiently to get in a striker as manager Steve Evans said he would have to.

Andre Gray had earlier signed for QPR on loan from Watford and that freed up Kelman to head out.

There was apparent interest from fellow League 1 sides Wimbledon and MK Dons for the young striker.

Kelman started his professional career at Southend United, having spent his younger years playing football in America. He’s represented the USA at under-18 and under-20 level.

He joined the Rs for an undisclosed fee from Southend last year, making 17 appearances for the Championship side during the previous season. This term he has featured in two EFL Cup matches and made one substitute appearance in the league.

Evans was keen to bring in at least one striker before the summer window closes.

If, as expected, John Akinde stays then there will now be three out and out strikers for the manager to choose from, along with young Gerald Sithole.