Patrick Bauer has sent a message to Preston North End fans on social media, after completing his move from Charlton Athletic.

The 26-year-old has signed a three-year deal at Deepdale and becomes Alex Neil's first signing of the summer, after turning down a new contract at Charlton.

The German centre-back posted an update on social media after the transfer was announced, saying that he is delighted to have signed for Preston and that he is looking forward to getting started.

Bauer has been an important player for Charlton over the past few seasons and made 39 appearances for the Addicks in all competitions last season, scoring a dramatic injury-time winner in the League One play-off final against Sunderland at Wembley in his final appearance for the club.

Preston finished 14th in the Championship table last season and will be hoping to challenge for the play-offs next season, with Neil looking to strengthen his squad in the transfer market this summer.

The Verdict

This could be a great signing for Preston North End, especially on a free transfer. Bauer is a very good defender and will add some more experience to the Preston defence and increase competition for starting places.

I'm sure Charlton will be very disappointed to see him leave the club and it's a massive blow for them to lose a player of his importance on a free transfer, although I'm sure fans will be thankful for what he did for the club over the past few seasons.

He's made a few appearances in the Championship for Charlton, but now could be the time for him to make a real impact in the second tier.