Leeds have signed Australian international defender Patrick Kisnorbo.

Central defence has been a concern throughout the pre-season, especially as Richard Naylor’s back operation means he is likely to miss the start of the campaign.

Kisnorbo brings plenty of experience to the position, having played in the Scottish Premier League and UEFA Cup with Hearts and in the Championship for Leicester.

The 28-year-old, who can also play midfield, was taken to Leicester along with former United full back Alan Maybury when Hearts manager Craig Levein moved there.

He quickly became a first-team regular and fans’ favourite but did not play much last season after picking up a knee ligament injury in April 2008.

Leicester did not renew his contract and although Kisnorbo was linked with Crystal Palace and Derby, he chose Leeds.

He said: “I saw more in this club than in the others. None of them appealed to me as much as Leeds, which has a great tradition and history.”

Kisnorbo’s recruitment almost certainly means United have decided against signing Sam Sodje, who impressed while on loan last season but who struggles to play two games in a week.

Leeds boss Simon Grayson must also make up his mind about 21-year-old French central defender Mathieu Baudry, who impressed during the 1-1 draw at Grimsby on Tuesday night and might be one for the future.