An exciting prospect from Norwich City has finally put pen to paper at Stevenage - five month after Steve Evans first tried to get him.

Jonathan Tomkinson has joined the League Two high-flyers on loan for the remainder of the season.

The American youth international, the 20-year-old hailing from Plano in Texas, just north of Dallas, was on the Boro boss's shopping list in the summer when he made a successful bid for Saxon Earley.

It didn't happen then but although he went on to make his first two appearances for the Championship side, against Birmingham City in the Carabao Cup and then in October against Burnley in the league, he has fallen behind senior duo Grant Hanley and Ben Gibson.

His deal with Norwich lasts until 2024.

First indications say he will be used as a central defender cover, supplementing skipper Cal Piergianni, Dan Sweeney and Terence Vancooten, but he can also play as a full-back if necessary.

Evans said: "Jonathan is a big, strong and decisive defender and by being able to play anywhere across the defence, he adds fierce competition to some already very talented players.  

"We tried to sign JT in the summer when we brought in Saxon and without doubt, he is of the same standard.

"He needs to get focused in his work and help play a part in our ambitions for the season.

"I am delighted Norwich City have placed him with us given the multiple options they have from League One. and I thank both David Wagner and Stuart Webber for such trust."

Tomkinson is Boro's third signing of the January window following the loan signing of Daryl Horgan and the permanent capture of Jake Forster-Caskey.

All three are available for Stevenage's trip to Harrogate Town.