It’s been a busy period in the Hyundai A-League transfer market with plenty of player movement across the competition.
Here’s our top five transfers over the past month and why these players could be crucial signings for their new clubs.
Kosta Barbarouses (Victory)
The 27-year-old returned to New Zealand last season with the Phoenix after three successful campaigns with Victory.
But the All Whites flyer failed to settle in Wellington and has returned to Victory, where he won a title under Kevin Muscat in 2015.
With Fahid Ben Khalfallah moving to Brisbane, Barbarouses’ pace and attacking flair will be pivotal for Victory.
And with the All Whites hoping to qualify for Russia 2018, he’ll be hungry to return to his best for the Big V.
Eugene Galekovic (City)
After a decade with the Reds in Adelaide – including a Championship in 2016 – the gloveman returns to his hometown for a “new challenge” with City.
With more than 250 Hyundai A-League games to his name, his composure and winning mentality could prove crucial in a City squad where success is a must.
Still in peak condition as well at the ripe old age of 36.
Nikolai Topor-Stanley (Jets)
Strong defender? Tick. Experience? Tick. Proven winner? Tick. The Jets are desperate to end their eight year finals drought and in Topor-Stanley they have someone who can help them do just that.
The 32-year-old is back in the Hunter and his presence immediately gives Ernie Merrick’s troops a more formidable look.
His leadership and big-game experience is a massive bonus as the Jets look to re-shape their club culture after a lean few seasons.
Oriol Riera (Wanderers)
When it comes to pedigree, Tony Popovic looks onto a winner with the signing of the 31-year-old striker.
Riera – a product of the famed Barcelona youth academy La Masia – is a former teammate of the likes of Lionel Messi and Cesc Fabregas and has scored goals in La Liga, including against Real Madrid last season.
If he settles in Australia quickly, Riera could score plenty of goals in the Red and Black.
Corey Gameiro (Roar)
It’s been a frustrating few years for Gameiro, having endured three knee reconstructions in four seasons.
But the 24-year-old – released by City at the end of last season – has been thrown a lifeline by Brisbane and is hell-bent on reviving his career.
With blistering speed and an eye for goal, Gameiro could be a big hit under John Aloisi in what will be a new-look Roar attack.
