GILLINGHAM boss Mark Stimson is close to signing an unnamed central defender with only personal terms holding up the deal.

Paul Scally and the 21-year-old's club have hammered out the fee and Stimson is hopeful of the player's signature by the end of Thursday.

He said: "I have spoken to him and he wants to come here and get involved.

"I cannot say his name because if it doesn't go ahead we would look stupid, but he is a central defender and if he signs he will be available for the trip to Walsall."

Despite the positive news, Stimson has endured a frustrating time in signing players and he is critical of the January transfer window system.

He said: "Like a lot of other managers I would prefer to be allowed to trade throughout the season. Everything gets so hectic in January, you spend all your time on the phone chasing people, leaving messages and trying to sort out deals.

"I don't want to get tied down with all that as we have a game on Saturday and Tuesday and they need my full attention, it is very important not to neglect the playing side."

Stimson is also looking for clubs to approach him wanting to sign his players on loan saying: "I am surprised there has not been more interest as we have some good players here.

"It would help balance the books a little and level out the playing staff but, more importantly, it would mean they are getting regular football and that it what they need."