Hull have further strengthened their defensive options ahead of the new Championship season, after confirming the signing of Sean McLoughlin from Cork City.

A 22-year-old centre back, McLoughlin has joined from the Irish Premier League side for an undisclosed fee, signing a three-year contract at the KCOM Stadium, with the club holding the option of extending that deal by a further year.

Having moved to Cork as a teenager in the summer of 2013, McLoughlin has since gone on to make a total of 63 appearances in all competitions for the Irish side, scoring on five occasions.

Speaking to the club's official website following the announcement of the deal, McLoughlin said: “The move has been going on for the past couple of weeks now, so to finally get over here and sign – I’m delighted.

“I’m buzzing to be here and to be a Hull City player. I know I’ve still got a lot to learn, but it’s a fantastic opportunity and I’m looking forward to the challenges ahead.”

McLoughlin becomes Hull's second defensive recruit of the summer - after the arrival of centre back Ryan Tafazolli on a free transfer following his release from Peterborough - and their fifth signing overall.

Goalkeeper Matt Ingram and striker Tom Eaves have made permanent moves to the club from QPR and Gillingham respectively, while Everton winger Josh Bowler has joined on a season-long loan.

The Verdict

I think this is a good move for Hull.

At 22-years-old and with a good deal of experience already under his belt, it certainly looks as though there is plenty of potential to exploit long term here for the Tigers - as indicated by the length of McLoughlin's contract.

It will therefore be interesting to see just how quickly McLoughlin is thrust into first-team action for Hull, in what could be a tough campaign for the Tigers if they are unable to keep hold of their key players, such as the in-demand Jarrod Bowen.

You feel however that McLoughlin himself will be relishing this opportunity, as he looks to prove himself at a level he will never have played at before, something which you feel can only benefit the development of his individual game.