Swansea City are closing in on the signing of experienced defender Joel Ward, with the veteran set to join the Championship club on a short-term deal until the end of the season.
The 36-year-old has been without a club since leaving Crystal Palace last summer, bringing an end to a 13-year stay at Selhurst Park, where he established himself as a mainstay of the Eagles’ Premier League era.
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First reported by the BBC, Ward is expected to bolster Swansea’s defensive options, with the former Palace captain capable of operating both at right-back and in central defence.
Head coach Vitor Matos has been keen to add competition in the right-back position, particularly with Josh Key the only recognised specialist in that role.
In recent weeks, midfielder Ethan Galbraith has been deployed on the right side of defence, highlighting the Swans’ need for cover.
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Ward’s versatility could also prove useful in the centre of the back line. Ben Cabango and Cameron Burgess have been regular starters this season, while Kaelan Casey has largely filled a back-up role. Summer signing Ricardo Santos has made just one appearance from the bench.
The Hampshire-born defender joined Palace from Portsmouth in 2012 and went on to become a key figure during one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
He helped the Eagles secure promotion from the Championship in his first season and went on to make 364 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals.
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Although his involvement was limited last term, Ward was part of the Palace squad that lifted the FA Cup in May, even if he was an unused substitute in the final victory over Manchester City.
His final appearance for the club came shortly after, in a Premier League win against Wolves.
Swansea are now hopeful that his experience and leadership can provide a timely boost as they look to strengthen their squad for the run-in.