Gillingham and MK Dons in discussions over a compensation settlement after defender Jack Tucker moves to the League 1 side

Jack Tucker has ended speculation surrounding his next move by signing for MK Dons.

The Gillingham defender, who started out as a youngster in the club’s academy, has agreed a “long-term deal” with MK Dons, who are in discussions over a compensation settlement.

Gillingham are due compensation even though Tucker was out of contract at Priestfield. Dons say: “As an out-of-contract under-24 player, the Gills are due compensation and the two clubs are currently in dialogue regarding an appropriate settlement.”

It was always likely Tucker would leave the Gills this summer and a host of clubs showed interest, with Reading and Charlton among them, along with Bolton. Teams north of the border had been keeping tabs on the centre-back.

Tucker made his first-team debut for the Gills in October 2017 and went onto be a regular in the side. He leaves with 137 appearances under his belt. MK Dons finished third in League 1 last season, losing to Wycombe Wanderers in the play-offs.

Gillingham said: “Everyone at the club would like to thank Jack for his services and we wish him well for the future.”

Jack Tucker is a Don ✍️#DonDeal pic.twitter.com/6rVhEIkIRu

Tucker spoke to the MK Dons media team after signing and said: “I definitely feel like MK Dons is the right place for me to develop my career further.

“I met with the head coach (Liam Manning) and (sporting director) Liam Sweeting and they sold the club to me, which is impressive in itself. They showed real enthusiasm to bring me here and that, along with the ideas they had for me, made me really want to come here.

“I followed how MK Dons did at the end of last season and the club had an impressive campaign. I have played MK Dons a few times and I know how tough they make it for other