Lincoln City are closing in on the capture of Australian international defender Callum Elder, with the deal expected to be rubber-stamped this week.
The Imps romped to the League One title last season under the guidance of Michael Skubala, but know there is significant work to be done if they are to compete in the second-tier in 2026/27.
Skubala's recent decision to take over the managerial reins of Bristol City has seen Chris Cohen and Tom Shaw instated as joint head-coaches at Sincil Bank with the pair wasting no time in seeking new reinforcements this summer.
The first of those appears to be Elder, with the former Derby County man on the hunt for a fresh start after being released by the Pride Park outfit.
The three-time capped Australian has been the subject of interest from a handful of Championship and leading League One sides, but it's Lincoln who appear to have won the chase for his signature according to EFL transfer guru Pete O'Rourke.
Posting on social media, the former Sky Sports journalist said: "Understand Lincoln are in advanced talks to sign former Derby defender Callum Elder on a free transfer."
The 31-year-old boasts valuable experience and is capable of slotting in anywhere on the left hand side of defence, either as part of a back three, at left back or left wing-back.
He made 86 appearances across his spell in the East Midlands, with 30 of those coming last term as the Rams agonisingly missed out on a play-off berth.
An injury unfortunately curtailed his campaign in late February, but it's understood he has since made a full recovery and would be able to feature fully in the Imps' pre-season schedule.
Ironically, they kick-off their first campaign back in the second tier following a near seven decade long absence against Derby in the EFL Cup first round (August 8), before travelling to Middlesbrough for their league opener seven days later.
