Ben Garuccio has left Adelaide United and signed a life-changing three-year contract with Scottish Premiership side Heart of Midlothian.
The move will see the Australia Under-23 international play under former Scotland manager Craig Levein in his first experience of football in Europe.
It could also see him come up against fellow Australian Tom Rogic, who plays for Celtic in the Scottish Premiership.
Garuccio’s contract with Adelaide had expired and the opportunity of a move abroad proved too good to pass up.
The 22-year-old revealed he had sought the advice of a pair of compatriots before signing on at Tynecastle.
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“I spoke to guys like Patrick Kisnorbo and Dylan McGowan, so yeah, it was really good to get the views of Aussie boys who have played for Hearts in the past. They only had good things to say about the club,” Gaurccio told the club website.
“It’s an amazing opportunity for me to join such a big club and I can’t wait to get over to Edinburgh and get started.
“I’ve been impressed with everything I’ve seen so far. Craig showed me around and just right from the word go I had a really good feeling about the club.”
✍️ Hearts have completed the pre-contract signing of @Bengaruccio https://t.co/wiXKJ3Ruwh#WelcomeBen #BackingOurHearts pic.twitter.com/Gm0cz4dzdW
— Heart of Midlothian (@JamTarts) May 24, 2018
In a statement released by the Reds, Garuccio thanked his hometown club for the opportunity to cement himself as a regular in the Hyundai A-League.
“Firstly I’d like to thank Adelaide United and the fans for their support during my two seasons with the Club,” he said.
“It has been a dream come true for me to represent the Reds – the team I supported as a kid and the team I’ll continue to support in the future.
“I’ve created some great memories at Coopers Stadium and have been fortunate enough to work with some great people along the way – things that will always remain close to my heart.
“It’s sad to be leaving United and South Australia, but I’m looking forward to my next opportunity and what’s to come.”
