AUSTRALIAN international defender Ryan McGowan could become City’s first permanent signing of the transfer window.

The 28-year-old is due to fly in from the United Arab Emirates after the Bantams reportedly agreed a deal with his current club Al-Sharjah.

A powerful and versatile player, the 6ft 3in McGowan is chiefly a right back or centre half. But he can also play in a holding midfield role.

McGowan will be well known to Stuart McCall from his time in Scotland with Hearts and Dundee United.

The club have declined to comment and it is understood that there are several issues still to sort out, including international clearance.

But McGowan’s potential arrival is likely to signal a busy few days for the Bantams with only a week left before the deadline.