Rob Key is excited about this week’s signing of Durham all-rounder Ben Harmison and isn’t ruling out the prospect of more fresh faces arriving in the new year.

Former England under-19 international Harmison, who turns 26 early next month, is the younger brother of former England paceman Steve, and moves south following his release after seven seasons with the North East county.

Kent skipper Key (pictured) said: "Steve is one of my best pals in cricket and we did have a chat about Ben.

"We have signed an all-rounder with talent and potential who was a big part of Durham’s Championship side in 2009, playing 10 or 11 games, and forcing his way into a bowling attack which included Graham Onions, Harmy and Liam Plunkett."

Harmison joins fellow newcomers Michael Powell and Charlie Shreck at Canterbury and Key said: "We are trying to get in a position where there is more competition for places, which we didn’t have last season due to a lack of numbers.

"Powell is a proven run scorer and was involved with the England squad at the same time as me. He also brings a lot to the dressing room with his attitude and competitiveness.

"We are keeping our options open about making more new signings. It depends on the quality of player who is out there and most counties are finalising their squads at the moment.

"There is always the overseas market as well but it’s not quite as simple as it was.

"The Indian Premier League, visas and the amount of international cricket being played around the world makes decisions on players much more tricky."