Gillingham are looking to push the boat out on deadline day following their excellent start to the season. Sat at the top of League Two table and undefeated, there may be another vital acquisition to be made.
Gareth Ainsworth’s Gills currently boast the best defensive record in the division, with their goals largely credited to Armani Little.
However, a prolific striker could be the final piece of the puzzle for the Kent outfit, and the club could make that move today.
Gillingham Move for League One Forward
According to reports from Alan Nixon, Gillingham are set to move for Wigan Athletic’s Jonny Smith.
Smith is a very proven figure at League One level, despite stalling this season.
He was particularly impressive in his last spell in League Two. He tallied nine goals and six assists for Oldham Athletic when on loan from Bristol City.
Since then, he has been a reliable source of goals in the third tier for Burton Albion and Wigan Athletic.
With a return of six goals and six assists in all competitions for the Tics last season, he has been limited to only one appearance at the DW Stadium in the 2025-26 campaign.
While his record has never been outright prolific, he is undoubtedly proven at League One level. Therefore, an exceptional pick-up for a top-end League Two side.
Jonny Smith to Gillingham
Smith is a winger by trade, making it unclear as to where he would play in Ainsworth’s system.
Ainsworth has typically lined up in a 3-4-1-2 formation this season, leaving a number of positions available for Smith.
Max Clarke and Remeao Hutton are two forward-thinking wing-backs, leaving potential to fill in out wide where due.
None of Gillingham’s forwards have particularly started firing despite their team’s excellence in the table. This could leave a spot in the front two or just behind available for Smith to slot in.
Quick, agile, and positive with the ball at his feet, he could be complementary to the stature of Josh Andrews in a front two.
However, the role behind the two strikers could see Smith excel in a free role.
A move for Smith offers a new dimension to Gillingham’s attack, with a clear goal threat and versatility throughout their system.
If defensive standards are maintained and further goal threat is added, Gillingham could be comfortable favourites for League Two promotion this season.
