After 17 appearances for Eredivisie side, NAC Breda, Birighitti signed a three-year deal with City to keep him in Melbourne until 2021.

Originally from Perth, the 27-year old adds experience after more than 80 appearances for Adelaide United and Newcastle Jets over an eight-year period.

Birighitti also represented Australia 38 times at U17, U20 and U23 level before making a senior team appearance against China in 2013.

“Mark is one of Australia’s brightest goalkeeping talents and we think he’s got a lot to give in this stage of his career” said City coach Warren Joyce.

“He communicates well on the field, is a solid shot-stopper and good with his feet. He’s also shown he’s adaptable to different playing styles throughout his career in Australia and Europe.”

Birighitti has also featured for Varese Calcio (four appearances) in Italy’s Serie B and with Swansea City (six U23 appearances) in the UK.

“I’m pleased to be returning to Australia and to join a club with genuine title aspirations and a group with talent like Melbourne City is very exciting,” said Birighitti.

“I’ve worked hard over the past couple of seasons and learnt a lot which I hope to put that to good use this season and challenge for a regular place in the team."