Peterborough United sign Joe Tomlinson, a two-footed full-back or wing-back who was attracting the attention of multiple Football League clubs

Tomlinson (21), who came through the Southampton Academy, has earned rave reviews for his performances at National League Easteligh, where he scored 12 goals, created four goals and was part of a back-line that kept 15 clean sheets in 42 appearances. He also won the young player of the pear and player of the year during his time at the club.

Tomlinson has signed a three year Posh contract.

Posh boss Darren Ferguson said: “It is a really good signing for us. There were so many teams showing an interest, so I’m delighted to get the deal done now. I was made aware of him last season. We had eyes on him in the first pre-season game and we didn’t need to see him again. It was done, the decision was made.

“He is an excellent athlete, two-footed, can play left back or left-wing back or right back or right-wing back. He is a good size and is a lovely lad. We see real potential with this one and I am excited about it. He is a modern-day full back, a good crosser of the ball with both feet. He takes penalties with his right-foot and free-kicks with his left.

“We are delighted to get it over the line, and it was just in time because there were due to be 20 scouts at their fixture next Tuesday evening. I have to thank Eastleigh for the way they have dealt with it. In the last couple of years they have developed a lot of younger players.”

Tomlinson was part of the Southampton Academy until the age of 16 and actually had a two-week trial at PoshHe spent two years with Yeovil and a year as a professional at Brighton and Hove Albion with a loan spell at Bognor Regis Town during that period of time.

Tomlinson said: “I am really pleased to be here. Once I heard about the interest I wanted to make the move and I am looking forward to it. I guess you could say I am a modern day defender in the sense that I enjoy the attacking side of it as well as the defensive side of it. I can’t wait to get started.”

Tomlinson will wear the number 21 shirt.

League One side Oxford were among the clubs reportedly interest in Tomlinson.