Newcastle Jets have lured Argentinian winger Patricio Rodriguez to the A-League, joining former AEK Athens teammate Ronald Vargas at the club.
Rodriguez has been brought in for the rest of the season as an injury replacement for Vargas, who broke and dislocated his ankle in October.
The 27-year-old Rodriguez, whose signature with the Jets is subject to a medical clearance, has made 26 Greek Super League appearances for AEK in two seasons, but only two this term.
Jets coach Ernie Merrick said Venezuelan Vargas, who's expected to return around finals time, spruiked Newcastle to Rodriguez.
"They've played together quite a bit, so I think that will be a massive advantage for us when we have them both on the park together later this season," Merrick said.
Merrick said he'd allow Rodriguez to attack more than he did for Athens, where he scored three goals.
"He's a wonderful striker of the ball and will add a great deal to our front third," Merrick said.
Rodriguez is expected to make his debut in their Jan. 9 clash with the Central Coast.
The second-placed Jets, who are on tracked to play in their first finals series in eight years, also signed emerging Australian midfielder Riley McGree this week.
