CARL Robinson worked with Bernie Ibini for 17 months at Vancouver and believes the former Socceroo would "fit in well" at the Newcastle Jets.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Robinson confirmed on Friday that Ibini and Welsh international Joe Ledley were among a host of players being looked at to strengthen the squad - now and for next season.
Ibini, 27, is living in Sydney and is without a club after a move to Esteghlal in Iran broke down in January.
"There was a conversation with Bernie. I'm not sure on where it is at at the moment," Robinson said.
"I know Bernie from my time in Vancouver. Great lad, good player and obviously knows the A-League inside out.
"His attributes would fit in well with what we have got. He knows the way I work and I know how to get the best out of players."
Ledley, a 33-year-old midfielder with 77 caps for Wales, is also a free agent but unlike Ibini is a visa player and the Jets have filled their quota of five for this season.
"There was a conversation," Robinson said. "It hasn't moved any further. Joe is a very good player, we know that. He has great experience. I know him from the Welsh set up. He was a lot younger than me at the time.
"You build relationships throughout your career. Players who want something different, a change of scenery, have been on the phone to me in different situations. There are conversations with five or six players at the moment, not just to come in now but for next year as well, which is important because we need to improve the quality of the squad here.
"Competition for places is always the best way forward."
The Jets have six players off contract at the end of the season, including retiring keeper Glen Moss, while Bobby Burns and Abdiel Arroyo are on loan.
Robinson said it was crucial that any addition had a point of difference.
"Whenever any player comes in, whether it is in the short term - between now and the end of the year - or at the start of next season it will be to help the group of players, the foundation I think we already have," he said.
"They will have something different. I don't want 20 players who are all the same. I want different attributes from different players."