Conor McManus makes permanent move to Gillingham | OneFootball

Brentford B defender Conor McManus has made a permanent move to Sky Bet League Two side Gillingham.

The versatile defender joined the young Bees in the summer of 2023 and had a big impact across his three seasons with the club.

The 22-year-old signed with the B team in December 2022, making the move from Bray Wanderers.

McManus made 30 appearances for the Brentford B across the 2024/25 campaign when the Bees reached the Premier League Cup final and won the Professional Development League final against Bournemouth.

McManus, capable of playing anywhere across the back line, then went on to make 25 appearances in 2025/26.

He managed to play a key role for Sam Saunders' side as they clinched a second-consecutive PDL title with a 2-2 draw against Swansea City.

The defender regularly trained with the first team and was included in the matchday squad against Leeds for Keith Andrews’ side.

He also played in front of 40,000 fans against SL Benfica during a pre-season tour with the first team ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Internationally, McManus made his Republic of Ireland Under-21s debut in March 2025, in which he scored two headers against Hungary.

Saunders said: "I'm really pleased for Conor to get his opportunity to showcase himself in the Football League.

"Ever since he came over from Bray, he's been a breath of fresh air and a real example to the group on hard work, dedication and consistency.

"He's definitely going to be missed but he's one that we're really proud of.

"He came over as a young lad from Ireland, he's gone on to represent his country at Under-21s level and captained them, now he's going into the Football League and hopefully it's the start of a long and successful career."