Melbourne Victory have made their first signings of the off-season, landing defenders George Timotheou and Noah Smith.
Centre-back Timotheou and full-back Smith arrive in Melbourne for the 2022-23 Isuzu UTE A-League season.
Former Schalke and Australian youth international defender Timotheou joins semi-finalists Victory after two seasons with rivals Adelaide United.
Smith, who started his career at hometown club Adelaide, is coming off 10 appearances for Central Coast Mariners in 2021-22.
“We’re excited to welcome George and Noah to the club as we continue to round out the squad for the 2022-23 season,” said Victory’s director of football John Didulica, with Victory also welcoming back Matthew Bozinovski following his loan spell at Wellington Phoenix.
“The duo are both very talented with attributes that will suit our game model and we’re confident we will see the duo play their best football at Victory.
“Our defence was the most miserly in the A-League last season and we’re confident we’re continuing to build the right balance and options across our defence.”
The 24-year-old Timotheou made five appearances for 2021-22 A-League Men semi-finalists Adelaide, and eight across all competitions.
Timotheou played 14 games in his first season at Coopers Stadium.
“I’m thrilled to be joining Melbourne Victory and can’t wait to get started,” Timotheou said.
“I’ve followed the team’s progress over the past season and I’m looking forward to contributing to the club’s journey to success next season.”
The 21-year-old Smith featured 10 times in the ALM last term, with six of those starts in Gosford, scoring once.
Smith had amassed 10 league appearances for Adelaide before making the move to the Mariners in 2021-22.
“I’m excited to be joining a club like Melbourne Victory and giving my all for the loyal members and fans of the Club,” Smith said.
“The team has built an impressive defensive unit and I’m looking forward to joining it and playing an important role coming into the new season.”
