FORMER Swindon Town forward Jonny Williams has pulled out of an expected move to Bradford City at the last minute.

The ex-Wales international changed his mind on the switch to Yorkshire with everything agreed - and is now set to sign for division rivals Gillingham.

Before initially choosing Bradford, Williams is said to have turned down strong interest from newly-promoted sides, Northampton Town, Notts County, and Wrexham - although it is understood the approach from the Welsh team was not as serious.

It is a huge blow for Bradford, who were preparing to unveil the 29-year-old as their player late on Wednesday. All the relevant paperwork had been agreed between the club and Williams’ representatives.

It is understood that Williams was in a hotel in Leeds, paid for by the club, ahead of medical and media demands when they received confirmation that the move was off.

His agent called late on Tuesday night to inform City of the 29-year-old’s change of heart following an offer from the Gills.

The stunned Bantams thought they had nailed a three-year deal with Williams after meeting up with him last month.

They had been prepared to meet his wage demands, which would have been a huge improvement on what he had been earning at Swindon. Temporary accommodation had also been arranged to help him relocate his family in Yorkshire.

Williams had recently spoken to club officials and told them of his excitement ahead of joining City’s promotion fight.

Tuesday night’s call caught them completely on the hop. The follow-up message on Wednesday morning to underline the player’s change of heart arrived just two hours before he was due to undergo a medical.

Gillingham have been spending big since they were taken over by American Brad Galinson last Christmas.

The Florida-based property tycoon bankrolled a lucrative January transfer window which included the expensive capture of Tom Nichols and Oli Hawkins as the Gills pulled away from relegation trouble.

Meanwhile, Bradford's 22-23 season ended in the play-offs after losing to Carlisle United in the semi-finals.

Williams will discover when his prospective new team faces the side he snubbed on Thursday, June 22 when the EFL fixtures are released.

The 29-year-old netted 15 goals for Swindon in 84 appearances. He also provided 10 assists and helped the Robins reach the League Two play-offs in his first season.

Williams opted to move on for a fresh opportunity elsewhere at the end of his contract and was not offered a new deal.