Former rumoured Reading target Ryan Bennett has joined League One strugglers Cambridge United until the end of the season.

The 32-year-old centre-back was surplus to requirements at Swansea City under Russell Martin, bringing to an end a two-year stint in South Wales.

Experienced promotion winner with the likes of Norwich City and Wolves, the former England Under-21 international is making a return to the third tier for the first time in over a decade.

Wales Online reported that Paul Ince was interessted in bringing the defender to Berkshire over the summer- but wages were labelled an issue and the Essex-born favourite stayed at the Swansea.com Stadium.

He will link up with former Royal Sam Smith, who regularly catches the eye at the Abbey Stadium.

Losing their last three on the spin, the U's hover two points and one place above the relegation zone.

Last season they rallied to a 14th-placed position upon their third tier return.