Gillingham have shown their intention to push for the League Two title next season by bringing in Welsh international Jonny Williams.

The 29 year old joins on a free transfer and is believed to be coming to Priestfield on a three year deal having recently left Swindon Town.

Having made 33 appearances for the Welsh national side, Williams comes to Kent with a rich pedigree having also played for both Crystal Palace and Charlton Athletic.

Chased by a number of clubs, Williams had been expected to have signed for Bradford City, but has opted for a move much closer to his family home.

Williams, who has represented his country on 33 occasions, having also played for the U17, U19 and U21 teams, began his career in the youth ranks at Crystal Palace and made his professional debut in August 2011 as a second half substitute in a Championship fixture at home to Coventry City.

Less than a month later he scored his first goal, that coming against Wigan Athletic in an EFL Cup tie. He was part of the Palace squad that won promotion to the Premier League in 2013 and made his debut in the top flight against Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park in August of the same year.

Following loan spells at Ipswich, MK Dons, Nottingham Forest and Sunderland he signed for Charlton on a permanent basis in January 2019 and, in total, made 66 appearances. Within that time he scored twice and experienced a second promotion when the Addicks defeated Sunderland in the 2018-19 League 1 Play-Off Final.

In August of 2021 the midfielder joined Swindon Town on a two-year contract and scored 15 times in 84 appearances. He was released by the Robins earlier this summer.

On signing for the Gills, Jonny said: “I am really excited, this is a club with a lot of potential. I was born in Kent so I am delighted to be home.

“I have always looked out for Gillingham’s results, it’s a big club in League Two. I’ve got a lot to give, the Chairman is great and I want to be a part of the journey.”

Manager, Neil Harris, said: “We have got an experienced player with a brilliant pedigree playing at the top end of international Football, as well as understanding the lower leagues.”

“He’s had a brilliant career so far, he has always caused problems to my teams. He’s an intelligent Footballer with a superb work ethic to match. He will bring that spark; he’s an excellent character.”

Williams becomes the first permanent signing of the summer for Gills boss Neil Harris with another five expected through the door in the coming weeks and months.