Birchall began his career as a trainee at Arsenal

Gillingham have signed Dover Athletic striker Adam Birchall on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The Whites had accepted offers from Swindon Town and AFC Wimbledon before accepting the Gills' bid on Monday.

Dover chairman Jim Parmenter told the club website: "Adam showed a desire to go to Gillingham and our agreement let him talk to League clubs."

Birchall, 26, was brought to Dover in 2009 by Gills manager Andy Hessenthaler when he was Whites boss.

Hessenthaler previously told BBC Radio Kent: "I signed Adam. I brought him to Dover. He brought success to Dover along with Matt Fish and Ross Flitney.

I just want to say to the Dover fans that the only reason I want to leave the club is to play League football Dover striker, Adam Birchall

"They're the three players I brought to the club and obviously they brought success to Dover."

Birchall said: "I just want to say to the Dover fans that the only reason I want to leave the club is to play League football.

"If Dover were a League side, I'd stay here for many more years to come - but this is perhaps my last chance to play on the League stage.

"Dover Athletic are a very special club and I'll never forget my time here. Last season, with the FA Cup run especially, was my greatest ever."

Birchall began his career at Arsenal, during which time he was capped by the Wales Under-21 side.

After a short spell on loan at Wycombe Wanderers, he moved to Mansfield Town in 2005. He then moved to Barnet but was released in 2009 by then boss Ian Hendon, who is now Gills assistant manager.

Hessenthaler swooped to take him to the Whites where he started an incredible scoring streak, seeing him score 64 goals in 78 appearances.

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