In a five-month loan spell in League Two with Rochdale in 2007/08, he scored nine goals in 19 starts.
Howe will be named the squad for Saturday's League One clash with Colchester at the Priestfield Stadium.
Gills boss Mark Stimson told BBC Kent that the club were interested in bringing in a number of new players.
"I've been talking to two players over the last two days, hopefully they'll come and join us," Stimson said.
"I'm here to try and make the club go forward and fingers cross at least one or two will come off. We might even be able to get all three in by the weekend."
Source: BBC Sport
Source: BBC Sport