Gillingham have bolstered their defence by capturing Yeovil Town’s star man.

Central defender Alex Lacey was named Yeovil player-of-the-year last season but the 23-year-old has decided to switch clubs rather than extend his stay with the Glovers.

Lacey was out of contract at Yeovil and ends a successful two year stint with the League 2 club, having joined them from Luton Town.

The Gills had major problems in defence last season but head coach Ady Pennock has moved quickly to start making additions, with the new arrival joining on a two-year deal.

After agreeing terms at Priestfield, the 6ft 2in defender explained why he chose to join the Gills: “Leaving Luton and going to Yeovil was a big decision to make, but Yeovil was very good for my development.

“To come into league 1, I think is a step in the right direction. I was impressed with the set-up here and I am delighted to have signed.

“The prospect of playing in league 1 and the step up was very attractive. When I met Ady it has reinforced it. It is a good professional set up and the club is ambitious which is what attracted me here.”

Lacey progressed through Luton’s youth set-up, turning professional with them in 2010. He had loan spells at Cambridge City, Thurrock, Eastbourne and Eastleigh before establishing himself with his own club. He played 21 games for the side when they won the Conference title in 2014.

He made 18 appearances for Luton the following season in League 2 before moving on to Yeovil in the summer of 2015.

Lacey made 60 league appearances for Yeovil in the last two seasons, winning three trophies during their end of season awards.