Posh have swooped for highly-rated Exeter City striker Tom Nichols.

Peterborough United are delighted to announce the signing of Exeter City striker Tom Nichols for an undisclosed fee with the 22-year-old penning a four and a half year deal at the ABAX Stadium.

Nichols, who joined the Grecians as an 10-year-old, scored against Liverpool in the FA Cup third round and has been linked with a host of clubs, but opted to sign for Posh, completing the formalities on transfer deadline day after passing a medical.

"When I heard about the interest from Peterborough, it was a no brainer. The reputation this club has for developing players is second to none and I am delighted to be here. It has happened quite quickly and I can't wait to meet the lads and get started.

"I feel it is the right time in my career for the next chapter. I have been at Exeter for a long time and they have been fantastic with me and scoring against Liverpool was a huge career highlight for me.

"I am joining a club for a promotion push and that is exciting. Hopefully I can help my team-mates have a good end to the season," Nichols said.

Nichols scored 35 goals for the Grecians and has netted 12 times this season for Paul Tisdale's men.

Posh boss Graham Westley said: "Tom is another player in the same vain that this club recruits, a lad who has got games under his belt, young and has scored goals and very much a player where we feel the best is still to come and we all know what Peterborough does with those lads."

Nichols' squad number will be determined shortly.