Gillingham linked with permanent move for Brentford academy defender Conor McManus

Gillingham look set to solve one of manager Gareth Ainsworth's biggest problems.

Speculation before the weekend over a move for Brentford’s young Irish defender Conor McManus has continued heading into the new week.

With the Gills making their final preparations for Saturday's competitive opener, solving that problem before then would be a major boost.

The Gills have gone through pre-season without a recognised left-back, having let Max Clark go in the summer.

Manager Gareth Ainsworth has got around the issue with playing wing-backs throughout the summer, but he’ll want options to switch formation when needed.

McManus is a young defender without any Football League experience but, like fellow summer recruits Zane Albarus and Sam Tabares, the Brentford youngster appears ready to take the next step.

The 22-year-old joined Brentford in the summer of 2023 after coming through the youth ranks at Bray Wanderers.

Last year he made his debut for the Republic of Ireland under-21s and scored two headed goals against Hungary.

He has yet to make an EFL appearance, but a few seasons ago he was involved with Brentford in pre-season and played for them in a match against Benfica - watched by 40,000 fans.

His stats for Brentford B suggest he can defend well, while also contributing in attack, and a permanent move has reportedly been agreed. The Gills played Brentford’s under-23 team in a pre-season game this summer.

Ainsworth’s not hidden his desire to bring in a left-back, while he’s also now seeking a replacement for Sam Gale and wants to add another attacking option.

He said: “I want to bring one or two more in because my magic number isn't reached yet. We'll try and get a few more in.”

Having been asked directly about McManus, he