Bamba is a Bluebird as Warnock gets his man

(Picture: Action Images)

Cardiff boss Neil Warnock has made his second signing in just over 24 hours with the arrival of experienced defender Sol Bamba.

Bamba, 31, was released by former clubs Leeds by mutual consent on September 1st, and now joins Junior Hoilett in the Welsh capital after the Canadian joined yesterday.

The centre-back, who can list Leicester and PSG as other former employers and has represented Ivory Coast 44 times, will bolster Cardiff’s struggling back-line.

Warnock said: “Sol’s a leader and he’s another good addition for us.

“I tried to sign Sol a few years ago when he was at Leicester, on a couple of occasions. They didn’t come off then, but now is the right time and opportunity to bring him in.”

Cardiff are currently languishing 23rd in the Championship, and having shipped 19 goals so far this season, Warnock will be hoping Bamba’s experience at this level will help the side.

He left Leeds after just one appearance this season, in an opening day defeat at QPR in which he scored an own-goal, but despite dropping down the pecking order at Elland Road, the Ivorian will add some much needed steel to the Bluebirds.

Bamba said: “I know the league very well and am looking forward to offering my experience and leadership.

“I’m excited to be here. I always want to work with the gaffer, so as soon as this chance arose I jumped at it.”

Bamba’s arrival looks set to be sandwiched between Hoilett signing for Cardiff, and former Arsenal and Crystal Palace striker Marouane Chamakh joining Neil Warnock’s men.

The Moroccan is expected to sign before Friday, and all three signings are expected to play some part in Friday’s derby against Bristol City.