Gillingham are expected to make a second approach for Mansfield Town manager Steve Evans despite failing with their first bid to speak to the 54-year-old.

The Gills are looking for a new manager after Ady Pennock left last week and had an approach for Evans turned down by the Stags on Tuesday.

Sky Sports News are reporting that Evans will hold talks with Mansfield Town owner John Radford regarding the Gillingham approach.

Evans was appointed by Mansfield in November and they currently sit eighth in League Two after Saturday’s 3-1 win over leaders Notts County.

Gillingham sit 23rd in League One, having collected seven points from their opening 11 fixtures, with Director of Football Peter Taylor currently in charge on an interim basis.

Mansfield confirmed Gillingham’s approach on Tuesday afternoon and stated that they had turned down their request to speak to their manager:

“The club can confirm this afternoon that it has rejected an approach from Gillingham for the services of manager Steve Evans.”

“The club will be making no further comment as our full attentions are directed to this Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two match away at Colchester United.”

Evans will be seen by many Gillingham fans as a controversial appointment should he join the club.