Birkirkara bolstered their squad with the acquisition of Croatian defender Bruno Marotti. The 22-year-old, who can also be deployed as a midfielder, has put pen to paper on a one-year contract.

Marotti has represented Croatia in all youth ranks and last season played for NK Krka, in Slovenia.

He becomes the third overseas player to join the Stripes in the close season following the arrivals of defender Predrag Jovic and midfielder Srdjan Dimitrov, both Serbian.

Elsewhere, Ħamrun Spartans confirmed that Jake Grech had pledged his future to the newly-promoted Premier League side after putting pen to paper on a five-year contract extension.

Grech, who was attracting the interest of champions Valletta, played a key role for the Spartans as they won promotion last season.

The Reds have also reached an agreement to sign Daren Falzon on a year-long loan from Naxxar Lions.

Gżira United, the other Premier League newcomers, have secured the services of keeper Juergen Borg.

The Malta U-21 international slipped down the pecking order at Hibernians following the arrival of Andrew Hogg this summer. Malta keeper Justin Haber is also on the books of the Paolites.