Option 2: Let him play a melee Cleric. The flavor text for any ranged spell is he throws his shield, any melee attack he punches with his glove or shield. With this option he needs to learn shield, and needs good ST and Wisdom, just like Cap. His weapon damage could be based off any one-handed weapon, like war-hammer. His Gloves will cost as much as a War-hammer.
This is a great suggestion.
Having said that, players like this are trouble. Someone who's not willing to adapt or accommodate the group is inevitably going to cause conflict. I'd nip it in the bud and tell him it's just not a good idea since it significantly weakens the character and forces everyone else to compensate for him.
If he's not then willing to see his actions as being selfish, then I wouldn't invite him back.