Renowned for his steely performances, 29-year-old Salley has completed his contract with Chinese outfit Chengdu Blades and will join United as an injury replacement player with a view to making the move permanent next season.

The United boss almost snared the former Adelaide United anchorman in 2009, but Salley opted for a switch to China to take up a lucrative offer from Shaanxi Chanba.

At 183cm the muscular Ivorian, who is an Australian citizen, will bring both bark and bite to the Gold Coast midfield and will begin training this afternoon after flying in from Adelaide just this morning.

“I feel we’re missing some steel in the side as well as some Hyundai A-League experience, so Jonas will be the perfect player to bring in and add something to the squad,” said Head Coach Miron Bleiberg.

“We tried to get him when Gold Coast United first started but he went to China instead, so when he became available this time we were keen to bring him in and the timing of the move could be ideal for us.

“He’s experienced and is a tough customer, which is maybe what we need to add to the group at the moment.”

After touching down from Adelaide this morning the strong midfielder said the arrangement to bring him to the Gold Coast happened quickly with initial contact made only late last week.

“My agent spoke with me last Thursday and said something could happen with Gold Coast United and it was confirmed last night, so I’m very happy to be here,” Salley said.

“Timing is everything – maybe before it wasn’t meant to be but now is the right time for me to come here.

“I’m excited to back in the Hyundai A-League. I’ve watched it on television and the competition is much better than when I left. I can’t wait to get started and I’m hoping to do a great job for the club. The priority for me is to give my best and play with everything I have for Gold Coast United.”

Salley may well meet Harry on Sunday if cleared in time to face Kewell’s Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park as Gold Coast look to snap their recent run of results and get back to winning ways.