Gillingham haven’t given up on hope that Sean Clare will return to the club.

The Sheffield Wednesday midfielder impressed during his half-season loan at the Gills, making 20 league starts.

Clare is out of contract in the summer but the Gills are keen to get a deal sorted before the transfer window closes on Wednesday night.

Gills boss Steve Lovell has made a couple of midfield additions already during the January window, bringing in Franck Moussa and Navid Nasseri, but he has always been keen on getting Clare back.

Chairman Paul Scally confirmed that they were still hopeful.

“We are still trying to do the Sean Clare deal,” said Mr Scally.

“It is a tricky situation and not in our control. We have done as much as we can do."

Clare, impressive as an attacking outlet from midfield during his time at the club, would also help bolster their right-back options, as cover for Luke O’Neill.

He has seen little action since returning to Wednesday, making a late substitute appearance against Sheffield United three weeks ago.

Lovell has also been looking at bolstering his forward options before the window closes at 11pm.