Gillingham are hoping to sign a goalkeeper on loan from a Premier League club in the next 48 hours.

Manager Steve Evans confirmed the move has been agreed in principle and hopes to complete the paperwork shortly.

“He’s coming in on loan for the season, he’s highly regarded and that’s a big factor,” said Evans.

“The most important factor is that I saw him live five or six times last year, as did Paul Raynor, and we’ve earmarked this kid for a while.

“It’s very similar to others we managed to get over the line. We were in a queue with young Dan (Phillips), we had to wait. We’re hopeful that he will sign the papers and join us.

“This looks a very simple and honest conversation. When you get a call from some serious people in the Premier League who say it is happening then you believe it.”

The new arrival will compete alongside summer signing Aaron Chapman to be the regular first-choice keeper at Priestfield.

Chapman expects to fight for his place in the team and is up for the challenge.

“It’s always good to have competition coming in as you don’t want your standards to drop,” said Chapman. “I’m looking forward to seeing who it is.”

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