Melbourne Victory continue to strengthen ahead of the 2022-23 Isuzu UTE A-League season, signing attacker Eli Adams and goalkeeper Ahmad Taleb to scholarship contracts.
Adams makes the move to Melbourne from Brisbane Roar, where the 20-year-old academy graduate made seven appearances last season.
Taleb arrives from A-League Men rivals Melbourne City on a deal until the end of the 2023-24 season – the 19-year-old having been part of the club’s senior set-up.
“We’re pleased to welcome Eli and Ahmad to Melbourne Victory for the upcoming season,” said Victory head coach Tony Popovic, who has already signed Tomi Juric, George Timotheou and Noah Smith.
“Eli is a talented prospect who we tracked closely last season and we were impressed with his progress. He has the ability to play across the final third and will add another element to our attacking
make up heading into next season.
“Ahmad is one of Victoria’s best young goalkeepers who has now had a number of seasons in the system and is ready to take another step in his game.
“We look forward to working hard with him and taking his game to the next level.”
Adams made his debut for the Roar in the 2020-21 season and tallied 283 minutes of action for Warren Moon’s side last term.
Across all competitions, the midfielder played eight matches.
“I’m excited to be joining Melbourne Victory and working with the coaches and staff in Melbourne,” Adams said.
“The club has built a great environment for young players to develop as footballers and I’m looking forward to pushing myself every day and competing for a spot in the team.”
Taleb had been with City since 2018, though he didn’t make a senior appearance for the two-time reigning Premiership winners.
He was, however, on the bench for three games in the 2022 AFC Champions League group phase.
“I’m looking forward to continuing my goalkeeping development at Melbourne Victory,” Taleb said.
“There’s a strong goalkeeping group at the club and I am excited to learn and contribute to the team for the upcoming season.”
