Football: Phoenix sign Finkler from Victory

Andrew Durante and Gui Finkler will be teammates next season. Photo / Getty

Wellington Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick has pulled off a coup by signing Melbourne Victory playmaker Gui Finkler on a two-year contract.

The Brazilian is rated as one of the best midfielders in the A-League and fits the bill perfectly for Merrick.

"Gui is exactly the player we were looking for to complement Kosta Barabrouses," the coach said. "His accurate passing can shred defences and set up goal-scoring chances.

"Gui serves a dual purpose in that he is also a set-piece specialist. We are not a good team when it comes to set-pieces and Gui will bring that special skill to the side."

Finkler said he was looking forward to playing for the Phoenix alongside Barbarouses who he has linked well with for the Victory.

"It is a new challenge for me and one that I am keen to start," Finkler said. "Ernie has shown me what he wants to do in the next couple of years and I want to be a part of it. The club wants to grow and I want to help them win trophies."

Finkler said having Barbarouses at the club would be a big plus.

"It helps you settle in if you have a close friend with you," he said. "Besides being a friend Kosta is a smart, quality player and we combine well."

Phoenix general manager David Dome said Finkler's signing was part of an overall strategic plan and the signing of quality players was a crucial strategic pillar.

"The owners and Board have made a strategic decision that the best way to ensure the long-term financial success of the club is in part our ability to play entertaining, exciting football to attract more spectators and viewers and to give us the best chance of winning the A-League," Dome said.