A 17-goal marksman for the Cobblers last season, the 28-year-old left Sixfields after failing to agree terms on a new deal and has been linked with a host of clubs, from Aberdeen to Southend this summer.
His final destination however is Gillingham, where a one-year deal is on the table.
Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, Gills boss Andy Hessenthaler said: "What he is is what we haven't got, a proven goal scorer.
"He's a big boy isn't he? He's passed his medical and if you look at him he is pure muscle.
"He's unbelievable."
Saturday 30 October will see Akinfenwa's return to Sixfields.