Ballarat's Stefan Nigro is returning to where his A-League career began - Melbourne Victory.
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The 24-year-old has secured a three-year deal as Victory begins a rebuild under new head coach Tony Popovic.
Nigro makes the move after a season with Gold Coast Mariners.
"I could not be more excited to be coming back home," Nigro told Victory's media unit.
"My football journey has seen me have to work hard for opportunities, but it has also made me a stronger and more determined player.
"I cannot wait to bring this experience back to my club and to play under Tony Popovic's direction," he said.
Nigro grew up in Ballarat, graduating from the former Ballarat Red Devils to Melbourne Victory's Academy program, playing in the National Premier Leagues.
He was selected for his A-league debut with Victory in 2015-16 , playing three games late in the season.
He made 26 appearances with Victory, including the 2018 championship, before being picked up by Brisbane Roar in 2018-19.
Nigro had just the one season with Brisbane and after a year out of the A-League - he played with NPL club Green Gully - joined Gold Coast last season and played in all 27 matches as it climbed to third position.
Popovic said Nigro would bring professionalism, determination and a deep passion for Victory to the first team.
"Stefan has had to work hard to earn a place in the A-League," Popovic said.
"This experience has matured him as a player and is a characteristic that will give stability to our defence and the team as a whole. We are looking forward to welcoming him back to the club."
Melbourne Victory is looking to bounce back after its worst ever season.
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Victory finished last in the 12-team competition with five wins and four losses in 26 rounds.
