Birmingham City’s decision to release full-back Amari’i Bell is likely to alert the Gills.

Boss Justin Edinburgh has previously spoken of his desire to capture the left-back on a permanent deal.

The 21-year-old will be a free agent now following City’s decision not to offer take up the option of an extension of his current deal, which is soon to expire.

Fellow League 1 side Fleetwood Town are, however, also being linked with the player.

Bell spent the latter stages of the 2014/15 campaign on loan with the Gills, making seven appearances.

Edinburgh has yet to announce any senior arrivals, with youngsters Elliott List and Emmanuel Osadebe the only new arrivals since the end of their campaign.

Twenty-one-year-old Bell leaves the Blues after four years at the club. He made a good impression on Edinburgh during his time at Priestfield.

The Gills boss also previously stated his desire to capture the youngster on a permanent deal.

Speaking before the end of the season, Edinburgh said: “There are a lot of attributes he has for a modern day full-back and we just have to keep pushing him because I feel there is more to come.

“His performances would put him on our radar. I understand they (Birmingham) have an option on him; I’m not sure that’s been activated as yet, but we will monitor that, because the potential is there for someone who could be a big asset to the football club.”

During his time with Birmingham he made just one first team appearance, in a Championship match against Leicester City in January.