Melbourne has pulled off a recruiting coup in the wake of Danny Allsopp’s departure for Qatar with former Brisbane winger Robbie Kruse agreeing to a two-year deal to join the club.
Kruse played the first five games of the season with the Roar as an injury-replacement for Massimo Murdocca. But with that period ended, Melbourne acted quickly to secure the lightning-quick attacking player’s services.
The 20-year-old is renowned for his skills and speed and has scored four goals in 26 appearances with the Roar.
“We’re really keen to develop and foster a healthy mix of youth and experience for the immediate future, while also planning long-term, and Robbie is a fantastic addition to Melbourne Victory,” Victory football manager Gary Cole said.
“He burst onto the scene in 2007 with Brisbane, scored a stunning goal against us in one of his first matches and has been on our radar ever since.”
“He’s proven over the past three years that he has a lot to offer in a variety of roles and we believe he’ll fit well into our attacking set-up.”
Allsopp left the club to join Qatari outfit Al-Rayyan Sports Club earlier this week, leaving the window open for Melbourne to sign a replacement.
Midfielder Mate Dugandzic has been promoted from the National Youth League set-up and has been given a two-year deal as well.
“Mate is an exciting, promising young talent who is technically gifted, had an excellent season in the Victorian Premier League and is one of the quickest players we’ve ever had at the club,” Cole said.
“He played against us in three matches for the Victorian state side earlier this year and we have been monitoring his progress.”
“He’s a good addition to our squad and the next two years will provide him with a good opportunity to develop as a footballer.”
Cole confirmed that the club could still make another signing as a replacement for injured midfielder Billy Celeski, who is set to miss the rest of the season.
