Sydney FC has agreed to the signing of experienced centre-half Alex Grant on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The 31-year-old will join Australia’s most successful club following his departure from Chinese Super League side Tianjin Jinmen, bringing a wealth of experience from some of Asia’s top competitions.
Grant made almost 100 appearances for South Korean giants Pohang Steelers, featuring in an AFC Champions League Final, in the K-League and Korean Cup – a tournament he won during his time with the club.
A proven performer in Australian football, Grant previously played 85 matches in the A-League and Australia Cup with Perth Glory.
He played a role in Glory’s only A-League trophy win, securing the 2018-19 Premiership before falling to Sydney FC in the Grand Final on penalties.
The Manchester-born but Western Australia-raised defender expressed his excitement at joining the Sky Blues.
“I’m thrilled to be signing with Sydney FC – a club with such a rich history of success,” Grant said.
“I know the expectations here, and I’m hungry to add more silverware to my career.
“The squad is full of top-quality players, some of the best in the country, and I’m confident we can achieve great things this season.”
Sydney FC Head Coach Ufuk Talay welcomed Grant’s arrival, highlighting his vast experience and leadership qualities.
“Alex is a fantastic addition to our squad,” Talay said.
“He’s played well over 200 games across multiple leagues, including the K-League, Chinese Super League, and A-League.
“He’s a left-sided defender with great composure on the ball and a strong defensive presence.
“His winning mentality and leadership will be valuable in guiding our younger players.
“He’s also a player who can score a goal, which is always a bonus from a defender.”
Grant has also previously played in England with Portsmouth, Stoke City, and Macclesfield Town before embarking on his successful career in Asia.
The experienced defender will wear the number 5 jersey and is in line to make his debut, subject to medical, in the highly anticipated Sydney Derby against Western Sydney Wanderers at Allianz Stadium next week.
Across his professional career, Grant has amassed 237 appearances and scored 18 goals, further solidifying his credentials as a strong and seasoned defender ready to make an immediate impact for the Sky Blues.
