Melbourne Heart have moved to strengthen their defence with the signing of teenage centre-back David Vrankovic.
First-year coach John Aloisi has seen Brendan Hamill (Seongnam) depart, while Curtis Good has all but secured a move to English Premier League outfit Newcastle.
Vrankovic, 18, will provide Heart with much-needed cover in the centre of defence after inking a two-year deal, confirmed by the A-League club on Tuesday.
“David is a young talented defender and we are certainly looking forward to working with him as he takes the next step in his football journey,” Aloisi said.
“Our commitment to youth and offering a pathway for emerging players is proven, and in David, the club feels it has a player capable of making rapid development.
“He is mobile and comfortable on the ball, traits which are a prerequisite in the modern game.
“Under tutelage of our coaching staff, we are confident David will be provided with every chance to fulfil his potential and follow in the footsteps of Brendan Hamill and Curtis Good.”
Young Socceroo Vrankovic joins Dylan Macallister, Josip Tadic, Patrick Gerhardt, Steven Gray, Golgol Mebrahtu and Andrew Redmayne in joining Heart in the off-season.
Vrankovic had been playing for New South Wales Premier League leaders Bonnyrigg White Eagles before the switch.
