Gillingham closing in on transfer swoop for Wigan Athletic winger Jonny Smith

Gillingham are closing in on the signing of Wigan Athletic winger Jonny Smith in what is said to be a “bargain” deal.

According to a report from journalist Alan Nixon, the Latics have agreed to sell the 28-year-old after he appeared in just one of the :atics’ opening six games of the new campaign.

Smith has been with the League One side for the last two seasons after joining from Burton Albion, but he has fallen down the pecking order under Ryan Lowe since his arrival late last season.

This has opened the door for a possible deadline day exit, with EFL clubs having until 7pm this evening to complete the deal.

Jonny Smith set for Wigan Athletic exit as Gillingham swoop

Wigan are reportedly planning to sanction the sale of Smith on deadline day, with Gillingham boss Gareth Ainsworth closing in on his arrival.

The Kent outfit have made a strong start to the new campaign, and sit top of League Two after six games, and are now set to strengthen their options out wide before the window closes for the summer.

It’s understood that Wigan have agreed to a bargain deal due to Smith falling down the list of preferred options out wide at the Brick Community Stadium, with Ryan Lowe preferring to utilise wing-backs.

The winger featured in the final 10 games of last season for the Latics following Lowe’s appointment, but he started on just five occasions, and he has made just one appearance in six to start this term.

This has led to the club putting the player up for sale this summer, with a move to Gillingham now on the cards.

However, time is running out on getting the move over the line, with the deadline fast approaching at 7pm.

Jonny Smith deal makes sense for both Wigan Athletic and Gillingham,

Smith is clearly not in Lowe’s first-team plans at Wigan, so a departure from the Latics makes a lot of sense at this stage.

Taking the step down to League Two with Gillingham could prove quite fruitful given their start to the new season, and he’ll bring decent experience at a higher level.

If the Gills can add some extra firepower with a proven track record at League Two before the window closes, it could be a big boost to their promising start to the campaign.

This has the makings of a deal that works out for all parties, provided they can get it all done and dusted before the window closes.

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