Plymouth sign striker Paterson and midfielder Watts

Jamie Paterson's only goal for Coventry City came in their 1-0 win over Portsmouth last month

Plymouth Argyle have signed experienced striker Jamie Paterson and midfielder Caleb Watts on free transfers.

Paterson, 33, was released by Coventry City earlier this month and has played more than 450 matches in the English Football League for the likes of Nottingham Forest, Bristol City and Swansea City.

Watts, 23, turned down the offer of a new contract with Devon neighbours Exeter City to sign a three-year deal with Argyle.

The duo are Plymouth's first new signings since they were relegated from the Championship, and the first under the direction of new head of football operations David Fox.

"He [Paterson] has spent virtually his whole career in the Championship, and to have a player of his quality and experience in our squad will be of great benefit," Fox told the club website.

Paterson's last appearance for Coventry came in the 3-1 loss at Plymouth last month - he joined the Sky Blues on a short-term deal in January from Major League Soccer club Charlotte FC.

"I am very happy that we have acted quickly to make our first signing of the summer," Argyle head coach Miron Muslic said.

"I spoke to Jamie on a video call last week and I think his character and experience will fit in perfectly in our locker room.

"He can play in a variety of positions along the front line, and will complement the way we want to play next season."

Argyle have not revealed the length of Paterson's contract at Home Park.

Watts has signed a three-year deal having made 48 appearances and scored five goals for the Grecians after signing for the club in September 2023.

Watts began his career at Southampton and has also had spells at Crawley Town and Morecambe.

Muslic said he will add "real depth and competition" to Argyle's midfield.

"He is a proven performer at League One level having made an impact for Exeter but is also still young and has so much room for growth and development," he said.

Exeter said in a statement they were "unable to come close to matching the financial terms offered to Caleb by another club".