Gillingham sign former QPR defender and Liverpool youth player Conor Masterson on a permanent basis after successful loan spells with the League 2 side

Gillingham have agreed a deal to sign QPR defender Conor Masterson on a permanent basis.

Irish defender Masterson leaves Championship side QPR and is Gillingham’s first bit of business since the end of their 2022/23 League 2 season. The 24-year-old will officially become a Gills player on July 1.

Masterson has twice been on loan with the Gills over the past two seasons, playing 38 times for the club in the league.

He’s formed a steady partnership at the back for Gillingham alongside another former QPR player, Max Ehmer.

Hours before Gills’ announcement his former club QPR said he would be leaving them after making 21 appearances with the R’s since his move from Liverpool in 2019.

"I'm delighted to get it done,” said the centre-half. “I have really enjoyed my time at Gillingham during the last two loan spells so to come here permanently, I can't wait."

Gillingham’s director of football Kenny Jackett added: "He has done very well in his loan spell this year in our resurgence during the back end of the season and everybody at the club is looking forward to working with him in 2023/24."

The club haven’t disclosed the length of his contract.