Former Watford defender Joel Ekstrand is expected to sign a contract with Sky Bet Championship side Bristol City next week (Bristol Post). The free agent has been without a club following his departure from Vicarage Road over the summer, but Lee Johnson is set to hand him a short-term deal.
The 27-year-old is looking to rebuild his career following a lengthy spell out of action because of a knee injury. He spent time on trial with Leeds United a few months ago, but the Swede has been training with the Robins since mid-August.
Ekstrand has not made a competitive appearance since lining up for Watford in a 1-0 home defeat against Ipswich Town in March 2015. It would appear he has done enough to convince those in the medical department at Ashton Gate that he is at least worthy of earning himself a short-term contract to prove himself and potentially earn a longer stay.
Former Barnsley boss Johnson only has three centre backs in his squad at present and would ideally like a fourth to provide adequate cover in what is set to be quite a hectic season. Zak Vyner left to join League Two side Accrington Stanley on loan, so adding another centre half is the one area Johnson would like to add more options to. The player is at least proven at this level and did earn promotion with Watford into the top tier. He could make his Bristol City debut against Rotherham United following the international break.
