DEFENDER Nic Newman will strengthen the Blues’ backline in 2019 after Carlton completed a trade with Sydney on Wednesday night.

Finalised in the dying minutes of the 2018 NAB AFL Trade Period, the Blues traded a future fourth-round pick for Newman.

Hailing from Victoria, Sydney recruited the 25-year-old from the Frankston Dolphins with pick No.35 in the 2015 rookie draft.

Newman was swiftly elevated to the senior list a year later, and has recorded 31 senior games since making his debut against the Western Bulldogs in Round 2, 2017.

GM of List Management and Strategy Stephen Silvagni said he was pleased to secure Newman just in the nick of time.

“Nic is a solid defender who has been a regular contributor in Sydney’s backline for the past two seasons and with his ability to pinch hit on the wing, we believe he’ll strengthen our defence and provide us with flexibility,” Silvagni said.

“At 25 years old and with 31 AFL games to his name, Nic’s a mature body who gives us a boost in the age bracket we’ve been targeting as we continue to execute the next phase of our list management strategy.

“If you look at our backline now with the addition of Newman, we’re creating a good mix of both developing and mature defenders, with the likes of co-captain Sam Docherty, Tom Williamson, Caleb Marchbank, Lachie Plowman, Kade Simpson, Liam Jones and Jacob Weitering.

“We look forward to welcoming Nic to Ikon Park when pre-season commences at the start of November.”

Newman becomes the fourth player to sign with the Blues during this year’s trade period alongside Mitch McGovern, Alex Fasolo and Will Setterfield.

The AFL trade period ends at 8:30pm on Wednesday 17 October (for exchange of players).