Insider: Portsmouth target Brandon Hanlan is pacy with plenty of potential - and Gillingham want to keep him

And according to Luke Cawdell, Gills reporter for KentOnline, the in-demand former Charlton man possesses immense potential.

The 23-year-old is out of contract at the Priestfield Stadium, although they would be entitled to compensation should he decide to depart.

In the meantime, Hanlan, who scored seven goals in 40 matches last season, of which 36 were starts, is continuing to train with Steve Evans’ side.

And Pompey are among the clubs chasing his signature.

Cawdell said: ‘The only criticism of Brandon last season was his scoring.

‘He’s a player who is definitely improving. He has quite a burst of speed, likes running at people when he has confidence and is good to watch, rattling defences.

‘However, it’s that final shot. He has everything apart from that missing final product.

‘Having said that, he is young, developing all the time and, if he can get confidence, will certainly be a good player.

‘Steve Evans is keen to keep him, offering Hanlan a new deal. As far as I am aware, the player is still considering it.

‘I suppose if he had scored 15 goals last season he would no longer be at Gillingham.

‘Evans will no doubt have a Plan B, the player has had quite a while to thank about things.

‘There is a Carabao Cup game against Southend on Saturday. The club will need to know by then.

‘He’s a good player and I think it will be a loss if he left Gillingham. He has plenty of potential.’

Hanlan made 15 appearances for Charlton earlier in his career.

He has now totalled 16 goals in 84 appearances for the Gills – and started both matches against Pompey last season.

During pre-season, he has featured in all five of Gillingham’s friendlies, most recently as a half-time substitute against Leyton Orient on Saturday.

Cawdell added: ‘Evans last season played a diamond with two up top. That front two included Hanlan on occasions.

‘Gillingham have John Akinde and added Vadaine Oliver this summer, so he could comfortably play off either of those.

‘Hanlan is also able to play out wide on the right and I can see him in an attacking three behind a striker, either centrally or on the right.

‘Should he leave, there is likely to be mixed reception from Gillingham fans because he hasn’t yet fulfilled his potential, only showing glimpses.

‘It would be nice to see him stay for another year – and whether he can take it up another level.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

Thank you for reading this story. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on our advertisers and thus our revenues.

The News is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. You can subscribe here for unlimited access to Portsmouth news and information online.

Every subscription helps us continue providing trusted, local journalism and campaign on your behalf for our city.