Howe said in January he did not want to return to Peterborough next season

Gillingham's chances of securing striker Rene Howe on a permanent deal next season look remote, according to manager Mark Stimson.

The 23-year-old has made 17 starts since signing on loan from Peterborough in January.

"The fee is still quite large for us and it's something that we probably can't quite get near unfortunately," Stimson told BBC Radio Kent.

"Also he's on a very good contract and we're only playing half his wages."

Stimson added: "We're quite a way from each other but we'll always try.

"In the end we're probably going to have to give up and look elsewhere because he's just out of our bracket."

Howe has previously said he does not want to return to his parent club.

Speaking shortly after he arrived at Priestfield in January, he said: "I've never had a good time there and I'm ready to get out of there.

"They don't like me and I'm not really interested in being there. I want to play under people who want me."

However, Posh have had two changes of manager since Howe departed on loan.

Howe scored the Gills' first goal in the 2-1 win against Southampton on Saturday, which leaves them needing a point at Wycombe on Saturday to ensure League One survival.

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