A-LEAGUE MEN: Victory goalkeeper Izzo departs for Euro switch as transfer window heats up
Melbourne Victory goalkeeper Paul Izzo has quit the A-League Men club to take up a contract in Europe.
Off the back of a standout two seasons in Melbourne, Izzo is expected to join Danish club Randers, with the Victory netting a small transfer fee for the 29-year-old shotstopper.
Izzo earned a Socceroos call-up off the back of his brilliant campaign last season, where he helped the club reach a grand final.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.That included a memorable elimination final performance against Melbourne City, when he made multiple saves, then saved three spot-kicks in the penalty shootout and scored one himself.
“The past two seasons in Melbourne have been incredible and I want to thank everyone involved at the club but more importantly, the members and fans for their support,” Izzo said.
“For me, I’m looking forward to being able to take the next step in my career and test myself abroad again.
“It’s an exciting opportunity for me and a challenge I’m ready to take on in my journey.”
It is Izzo’s second stint overseas after he played at Greek club Xanthi under Tony Popovic.
Izzo’s departure would open the door for former Socceroos goalkeeper Mitch Langerak to return to Melbourne, where he started his career, in the January transfer window, after his contract with Nagoya Grampus expires.
Langerak has been linked to an ALM return, but it is not yet confirmed.
Victory had already moved to cover Izzo by signing journeyman goalkeeper Jack Duncan from Newcastle on Monday.
“It’s a great opportunity for Paul to make a mark in European club football and further enhance his chances of entrenching himself as a Socceroo,” football director John Didulica said.
“Given Paul’s role in our memorable season and finals series, it’s obviously disappointing to lose him but we are proud to facilitate the move and confident the squad and its goalkeeping stocks will be just as strong going into the season.”
Earlier on Tuesday, Wellington announced the re-signing of Marco Rojas for next season, while ex-Victory playmaker Jake Brimmer joined newcomers Auckland FC.
