Jack Tucker: MK Dons sign Gillingham defender as Josh McEachran agrees new contract

Jack Tucker has played more than 100 games for Gillingham since his debut in 2017

MK Dons have signed Gillingham defender Jack Tucker on a "long-term deal" and agreed a new contract with midfielder Josh McEachran.

Tucker, 22, will complete his move to Stadium: MK on 1 July after making 50 appearances in 2021-22, scoring twice.

Gillingham are entitled to compensation after Tucker rejected a new deal with them and settlement talks are ongoing.

McEachran, 29, played 43 games last season to help the Dons reach the League One play-offs.

But he missed the home leg of their semi-final after being sent off in the first game at Wycombe.

"Josh made a huge impact last season, playing a number of games and taking on a lot of responsibility in the middle of the park," boss Liam Manning told the club website.

"In a young squad, Josh's experience is vital and he will have a role to play moving forwards in terms of leadership and support for the younger players.

"I am sure he will embrace that but, most importantly, continue to put the performances in, himself, on the pitch."

McEachran's previous deal was set to expire this summer and the club have not disclosed the length of his new contract.

On the signing of Tucker, Manning said: "He has the attributes, physically and technically, that we want from a player in his position and we saw that first-hand when he played in a midfield role against us in January.

"His personality is also a perfect fit for the culture we continue to establish here at the club."

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