ESSENDON has confirmed former St Kilda defender James Gwilt will join the club as a free agent.

 

The Saints cut the 28-year-old at the end of the season after 126 games with the club.

 

He has agreed to terms with the Bombers with the paperwork to officially be lodged on Sunday. 

Gwilt played in the two Grand Finals in 2010 with the Saints and was among the team's best players in the drawn Grand Final.

 

He had been linked with Melbourne and Greater Western Sydney throughout this trade period although the Demons were only going to consider him if he was available after the free agency period as they did not want to jeopardise the compensation received for losing free agent James Frawley.

 

St Kilda plucked Gwilt from Noble Park with pick No.63 in the 2004 AFL National Draft.

 

He was a talented performer in defence, is an excellent kick and can play a number of roles.

 

Bombers list manager Adrian Dodoro said he was a valuable addition to the club's list.

"James has great flexibility having showcased his ability to play on both small and tall forwards during his time at St Kilda. He has proven experience in big games having played well during finals series in his time at the Saints," Dodoro told the club's website.

"It is exciting that James has agreed to join our club as we believe he can add some real depth and experience to our list. 

He is still playing some very good football and we are confident he has a lot to offer our club going forward."