Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler is hoping a deal can be wrapped up for loan star Jo Kuffour as soon as possible.

The striker is due back at parent club Bristol Rovers after seeing a short-term agreement with the Gills come to an end on Friday.

The 30-year-old impressed during his time at Priestfield, playing a leading role in a nine-match unbeaten run.

Hessenthaler is understandably keen to keep Kuffour on board, be that on a permanent basis or another loan deal.

“We’re in talks with them,” he told the club’s official website.

“The chairman and them are talking. I’d love to think we can get something done over the weekend so that he’s available for us on Monday – that’s the plan.

“Whether we can do that, we’ll have to wait and see. The window opens on Sunday so we’d love to think we can get him available for Monday. If not, then leading up to the cup game.

“I’m not sure (what sort of deal is being discussed), I honestly don’t know what the negotiations are with the chairman. All I know is that he’s talking and we’d love to think we can get something done.”

Meanwhile, it looks unlikely that The Gills will be able to persuade West Ham United to allow striker Frank Nouble back to Priestfield on loan.

The 20 year old started and scored as the Hammers lost 2-1 at Derby on Saturday afternoon.