Dean Rance has signed for Dover Athletic.

Dean Rance becomes Nicky Forster’s third signing after being released by Gillingham.

Dean Rance has returned to Dover Athletic on a permanent deal after being released by Gillingham last week.

The 20-year-old made two appearances at the Crabble Ground last season during a loan spell, and has become Nicky Forster’s third signing following the arrivals of Steven Thomson and Mitchell Walker.

Rance told the club’s official website: “I’m excited about the fresh challenge and look forward to a successful season.”

He has been at Priestfield since the age of eight and progressed through their youth system, and impressively finished the 2009/10 season as top goalscorer.

As well as his loan period at Dover he has had spells at Maidstone United and Bishop’s Stortford in the last two years.

He made his first team debut for Gillingham in November 2011 as a substitute in an FA Cup first round replay against Bournemouth.