Jack Payne's future at Gillingham remains in the balance – with Peterborough expected to make an offer for the midfielder’s services.

The 21-year-old impressed while on loan at London Road during the second half of the season in the Championship.

Peterborough’s relegation means they will now be playing in the same division as the Gills next season, in League 1.

Before the weekend, Gills boss Martin Allen insisted no offer for Payne had been made, but that could change.

Allen said: “As far as I know Jack will be back to train with us on June 26 and that’s it. That’s black and white.

“I have had a chat with Barry Fry (director of football at Peterborough) and he called me. He said Jack has done really well and that’s how it was left really.”

But on Friday, Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson showed his hand, announcing that Payne would be his number one transfer target.

Ferguson told the Peterborough Telegraph: “I will try and sort something out with Jack and Gillingham, but it’s up to Gillingham. To be honest apart from Jack I’m not really bothered about signing anyone else. He is an exceptional footballer who suits the way I like to play.”