Zach Muscat has sorted out his club future after inking a two-year contract with US Arezzo.

Serie B outfits Avellino, Perugia and Vicenza were among the Italian clubs that reportedly made initial enquiries about Muscat, who left a very positive impression during his short stint with Sicilian side Akragas. But, Arezzo, who play in Group B of the Lega Pro championship, backed up their strong interest with a concrete offer to secure the Malta defender’s signature.

Muscat travelled to Italy earlier this week to conclude talks with Arezzo officials after these received the go-ahead from Stefano Sottili, the club’s newly-appointed coach, to complete the signing of the 22-year-old.

“My ambition was to continue this overseas adventure,” Muscat told Times of Malta.

“I had opportunities to join clubs in the Serie B but I made it clear to my agent that my aim was to go to a team where the challenge to play regularly was realistic, and where the coach wanted me to be there.

“These factors convinced me to sign for Arezzo. I also believe that, with Arezzo, I will be able to express myself better because their style is more constructive whereas at Akragas, the emphasis was on playing it safe at the back.

“Arezzo also have a nice footballing history.”

Sottili, a former defender who was on the books of Bologna and Atalanta, is overseeing an overhaul of the Arezzo squad after the club finished ninth in the league last season.

“They have recruited two players who were with Serie B clubs last season,” Muscat said. “Arezzo are building a new team with the aim of being more competitive and to challenge for the top positions.”

Muscat’s decision to leave Birkirkara for Akragas last January had been met with scepticism in some quarters as, at the time of his switch, the Agrigento-based club were fighting to avoid relegation.

It was a bold move by Muscat but his courage and dedication have been rewarded as he managed not only to hold a regular place in the team but also helped Akragas keep hold of their Lega Pro status.

“The efforts and sacrifices I made during the four months I spent with Akragas have paid off,” Muscat said.

“On my arrival in Arezzo, I was greeted by their scout who had a lot of information about me. He mentioned some of the games I had played with Akragas and the role I had in the team. It was clear that Arezzo monitored my matches during the stay with Akragas.”

Meanwhile, Malta goalkeeper Andrew Hogg has emerged as a top target for Hibernians.

It is understood that discussions between Hibernians and Hogg are at an advanced stage.

Reports suggest that Hogg is also weighing up proposals from Greek clubs Atromitos, Veria FC and Xanthi, as well as AEL Limassol and Neo Salamis Famagusta in Cyprus but, at present, Hibs appear to be in pole position to sign the Malta keeper. He is determined to relaunch his career after his spell with Greek club AEL Kalloni ended on a bitter note last February.

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