Justin Tellus is set to make his move to Marsaxlokk a permanent one after the latter reached an accord with Birkirkara for his transfer.

The 28-year-old Tellus was one of Marsaxlokk's best players in their first season among the big guns, prompting then coach J.J. Aquilina to appoint him team captain.

Contacted by The Times yesterday, Tellus confirmed that he has agreed a new deal with Marsaxlokk who exceeded expectations when securing a place in the Championship Pool last season.

"I am glad to have finalised talks with Marsaxlokk over a new contract," Tellus said. "I am really looking forward to helping the club achieve their target of qualifying for a European club competition after our positive campaign last season.

"Marsaxlokk have shown great faith in my abilities and I was really delighted to be given the captain's armband," Tellus added.

Asked whether he considered returning to Birkirkara after his one-year loan spell, Tellus said: "I enjoyed my time with Marsaxlokk and my sights were set on staying put."

Meanwhile, Marsaxlokk are working hard to bolster their squad before the start of the new season. After appointing Robert Kelly as their head coach, the southseasiders' chief priority is to hold on to a number of players who were on loan with them last season.

These include Richard Buhagiar, formerly of Floriana, and Pierre Grima and Trevor Templeman who are on the books of Sliema.

Defenders Nikolai Slavtchev (Marsa) and Charlò Magro (Hamrun Spartans) are widely tipped to sign for Marsaxlokk once the transfer window opens in August. Kevin Mamo, the Pietà Hotspurs left-back, is also believed to be attracting interest.