QPR’s loaned out defender Conor Masterson is wanted on a permanent basis by Gillingham, it has been confirmed by Kenny Jackett.
QPR sent Masterson out on loan again in January, with the 24-year-old reuniting with Gillingham after spending the second half of the 2021/22 campaign at Priestfield too.
He’s made a good impression in his second Gills with the stay, playing a part in all 10 League Two games since his arrival. He’s played an important role in helping Neil Harris’ side push away from the drop, even scoring in a 2-0 win over Tranmere Rovers at the weekend.
Now, the League Two club’s intention to keep Masterson has emerged.
As per Kent Online, Gillingham’s director of football Kenny Jackett confirmed at a recent fans form that the club are ‘strongly interested’ in holding onto the QPR man on a permanent basis. He said:
“We have all been very impressed, he did well last year when the club made a real good fist of staying in League One, it has been a good partnership with Max [Ehmer].
“He is out of contract at QPR in the summer and is a player we are strongly interested in, definitely.”
Best for Masterson?
Since moving to West London in 2019, Masterson has been in and around the first-team but most of his game time has been found out on loan. The Irishman has notched up 21 appearances for QPR while also spending spells on loan with Swindon Town, Cambridge United and Gillingham.
The former Liverpool prospect has looked like a promising defender in his spells away from Loftus Road and there have been bright moments in QPR colours, but it seems he’s not quite up to par to hold down a regular role with the R’s.
With that in mind and with his deal up in the summer, it seems like the perfect chance for Masterson to head elsewhere. He’s impressing with Gillingham and they’re keen to retain his services too, so this looks like a deal that could be best for all.
