Le Fondre replaces departed Brazilian star Bobo, who won the competition's golden boot last season before departing for Turkey.

The 31-year-old was released by Bolton Wanderers earlier this week and is believed to have signed a three-year contract with the Sky Blues.

Nicknamed 'Alfie', he scored 41 goals in 110 appearances for Reading across three seasons in the English Premier League and second-tier Championship.

"This is the opportunity of a lifetime for me and I'm very much eager to get started at Sydney FC," le Fondre said.

"I've heard nothing but good things about the club; they are winners with a winning culture and I'm a winner, so I believe it is the perfect match.

"My job is to score goals and I am very confident I can do that at Sydney FC, particularly with the quality players that are already in the squad."

Sydney coach Steve Corica described it was a recruitment coup, saying le Fondre was still in his prime as a striker.

"To reach double figures in your first Premier League season is no mean feat and I'm sure he will become a big success at Sydney FC," Corica said.

"We already have the quality to provide Adam with the service he thrives on and with one or two more players to come, it is going to be extremely exciting to see what he will produce in Sky Blue."

Le Fondre will be available to play in Tuesday night's FFA Cup round of 16 clash against Cairns FC, although a club statement suggests he is more likely to be left behind in Sydney and given time to recover from his flight from England.

Australian Associated Press