Coventry City have splashed out £2 million to sign Bosnian international centreback Muhamed Konjic to plug the leaks which have cost them points in recent weeks.

The 28 year old had been an ever-present in AS Monaco’s defence and was in the side which beat Manchester United in the European Champions League. He has captained Bosnia in thirty-three of their thirty-four matches since they became a separate footballing nation

Coventry have applied for a work permit and hope he can make his debut in their next home match against Liverpool at the end of this month.

The player has signed a contract which will last four and a half years.

Coventry’s chairman Bryan Richardson said:

"We tried to sign him from FC Zurich two years ago but were just too late. He had signed for Monaco for £2.2 million."

It was believed Coventry were looking for a top striker, but Richardson said:

"Our priority changed after the goals started to flow again. We decided instead to buy a strong, experienced, top quality central defender to help stop those silly goals going in which have cost us vital points this season."

The 6ft 4 ins centreback said:

"The premiership is the strongest league in Europe and the atmosphere at football grounds is wonderful. If I can do well I will know I am a good player."

It is the last signing for some time by Coventry. Chairman Richardson said:

"We have about forty players on our staff which is too many. There is no point in collecting players. We want to reduce it to twenty-five but any money we get from possible sales will go back into the pot to help strengthen the squad."