Wellington Phoenix have secured defender Jade North from Norwegian club Tromso IL on a one-year deal. The 28-year old was a key target for the New Zealand club during the off-season and has now decided to join after reportedly trialling with Chinese Super League club Beijing Guoan.

North is a former captain of Phoenix's A-League rivals Newcastle Jets and has represented Australia on 28 occasions making him a major coup for the club.

"Jade's a proven performer at elite level, with almost 100 appearances in the Hyundai A-League. He was outstanding for the Jets alongside Dura when they won the title a couple of seasons back and he'll fit in really well with the group we have here," said Phoenix coach Ricki Herbert.

"Not only does he have a wealth of experience but he also brings significant leadership qualities to the club, having captained the Jets, and he's a great replacement for Jon McKain."