Preston have announced the signing of Charlton's Patrick Bauer, who arrives on a free.

Bauer scored the winner at Wembley to take Charlton to the Championship, but in the weeks since failed to agree a new contract, perhaps due to the interest from Preston.

It signals bad news for Charlton who now have less than 10 first team players in the squad, and Bauer in particular was a key defender and leader on the pitch.

Their loss will be Preston's gain. They have been in for a centre-back this summer having previously been linked with Cork City's Sean McLoughlin.

Last season Preston conceded 67 goals in the Championship - only six sides conceded more - and with that record they won't get close to their play-off aspirations.

Meanwhile in the 35 League One games Bauer played last season Charlton kept 13 clean sheets and conceded just 26 goals. Without him they conceded 16 goals in 11 games - which underlines the difference he made.

However, in Bauer's only season in the Championship Charlton were relegated, so he is ready for the second tier?

Our writers discuss.

Toby Wilding

"I think this is a good signing for Preston.

"Bauer is a big presence in any defence, and will be brimming with confidence following his role in Charlton's promotion to the Championship last season.

"Getting this done on a free also makes this a good move financially, and beating out a number of Championship sides to sign the German represents something of a statement from the Lilywhites."

Ben Lang

"This is an excellent signing for Preston, and it is something of a coup given the number of clubs that were interested in Bauer.

"He was a solid performer throughout his time at Charlton, and he will bring a great deal of strength and height to Preston's defence.

"Bauer also offers composure on the ball which means he will fit in well with Preston's style of playing out from the back. I think he will be a regular starter for Alex Neil's side and could become a fans' favourite at Deepdale."

Alfie Burns 

"I really like the look of this signing on paper, and the fact that it is a free transfer makes it even better for Alex Neil.

"Bauer is a commanding figure and will have learnt a lot during his spell in League One with Charlton. He returns to the Championship a leader and someone with a point to prove.

"His leadership skills were fully on show at Wembley as he dragged the Addicks to the Championship, and you feel Preston have a bargain signing here.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the centre-back progress through the Championship."