Melbourne Victory could unleash Damien Da Silva as early as Sunday's clash with Newcastle after signing the experienced French defender until the end of the 2023/24 A-League Men season.
The 34-year-old joins the Victory from Ligue 1, playing 243 matches in the French top flight and representing the likes of Lyon, Rennes and Caen.
A Coupe de France winner in 2019 with Rennes, Da Silva is a versatile defender who has represented his country at youth level and was a graduate of the Bordeaux academy.
Da Silva is Victory's second new signing of the January transfer period, joining forward Bruce Kamau.
He will be available for Sunday's clash with the Jets pending international clearance.
Da Silva's arrival will help offset last week's retirement of former Socceroo Matthew Spiranovic.
"He's an experienced defender who has played at the top level in France for a number of years and we believe he will be an incredibly valuable asset to our defensive group," Victory coach Tony Popovic said.
Victory sit on bottom of the table with just 14 points to show from 14 matches.
Da Silva hopes he can play a role in helping the club turn around its fortunes.
"I've spoken to a lot of people about Australia and Melbourne Victory and know that it is the biggest club with the best fans in the league and I hope to be able to deliver for them on the pitch," he said.
Meanwhile, Sydney FC announced the departure of fringe defender Connor O'Toole and injury replacement Adrian Vlastelica.
