Hull City have confirmed the capture of striker Tom Eaves on a free transfer following his departure from Gillingham.

The 27-year-old has signed a three-year contract at the KCOM Stadium after impressing for the Gills last season, and the club also holds the option to extend his deal for a further year.

Eaves scored 22 goals in 50 appearances last season as Gillingham secured a mid-table finish, but the forward's two-year deal expired this summer which allowed him to join the Tigers.

The former Bolton man has already linked up with his new team-mates on their pre-season tour to Marbella, and Hull manager Grant McCann said he is pleased with the signing.

“He comes here with a good pedigree," he told the club website.

He was probably one of the best centre forwards in League One last season in terms of the goals he was scoring in a team that wasn’t around the top end of the table, so we’re really pleased to bring him here."

Eaves becomes McCann's second signing of the summer, after he signed goalkeeper Matt Ingram from QPR.

The Verdict

This is a really exciting move for Hull fans, as Eaves was something of a goal machine during his time at Gillingham and looks well-equipped to make the switch.

It will be interesting to see how the striker handles the step up in quality between the divisions, but I think he now has the physicality and experience to be a real asset for Hull next season.

The Tigers have been lacking a target man in Eaves' mould for some time, and his goalscoring eye should be vital for the club next season. This will particularly be the case if Jarrod Bowen leaves Hull this summer.

At 27, Eaves is also at a good age for a striker as he is entering his peak years. I think this is a bargain addition that should work out well for the Tigers over the coming years.