Gillingham target Sam Newson has agreed a new contract with Ryman League Division One North side Needham Market.

The 23 year old striker had been expected to have a trial with The Gills a few weeks ago, but had to be stretchered off in the game with Chatham Town just days before he was scheduled to head to Priestfield for his four day stint.

Newson, who has bagged himself 29 goals so far this season, alerting The Gills to his potential has now committed his future to the Marksmen until the end of the 2012/13 season, all but ruling out a move to The Gills in the immediate future.

Needham Market chairman David Bugg confirmed negotiations had taken place over a new contract prior to his injury and that he was pleased the striker had agreed to stay with his club:

“This is a timely boost for the football club as we go into this busy and key period of the season,” he told the Bury Free Press.

“To do so sitting top of the league and having secured the services of the top goalscorer to a new deal is great news for all of our supporters.”

Should Andy Hessenthaler now wish to pursue the striker any further, it seems certain that Needham Market would want a fee for the hotshot, possibly putting The Gills manager off.