Preston North End have completed the signing of Jack Whatmough on a free transfer.

The 26-year-old centre-back was a free agent after leaving Wigan Athletic last week, and he has now put pen to paper on a three-year deal at Deepdale, where he will wear the number 26 shirt.

"I'm over the moon. From the first moment I knew there was interest it was something that I wanted to get done as soon as possible. I'm really happy that it's done," he told the club website.

"I just had a conversation with the gaffer there and I'm just looking forward to training now with the lads and starting the season and seeing where it can take us.

"No matter what level you're at you want to test yourself and prove to people that you're worthy of being at that level, and that's what I want to do.

"I want to prove that I'm worthy to play Championship football. I think this club's the perfect fit for me and one that I'm really excited for."

Manager Ryan Lowe added: "I'm really pleased Jack's committed to us because there were several clubs interested in him as everyone probably knows.

"Once we knew Jack was available and we'd spoken to him, we were really keen to get it done and I'm happy we've got him on board.

"He's a footballing centre half who can play out from the back with a good range of passing and most importantly he's a solid defender.

"He's got plenty of experience and he adds to our competition in the backline which is what we want ultimately."

Whatmough, who has never played as high as the second tier before, could make his debut when Preston face Bristol City in their Championship season opener on Saturday.