Ħamrun Spartans have further underlined their strong ambitions for the 2016/17 season with the glamorous signing of Christian Maldini, the son of AC Milan great Paolo Maldini.

Maldini Jr yesterday declared his willingness to help his new club achieve their goals during his presentation at the Tedesco Stadium after last-minute negotiations with Reggiana on the final day of the transfer window brought the young defender to Malta on a year-long deal.

News that the young Maldini had decided to continue his career in Malta has baffled many since he had just joined Reggiana, in his first experience outside Milanello.

He has come through the youth ranks of AC Milan and joined the Lega Pro side only this summer.

“Despite joining Reggiana this summer I was open to the idea of joining a Maltese club, as I was keen to continue my career outside Italy,” he told the Times of Malta.

Maldini, who last year captained Milan’s youth team, is a humble, down-to-earth young man and is not ready to capitalise on the goodwill of his famous surname but eager to prove he is more than just being the son and grandson of two Milan legends.

“It is not easy to be the son of Paolo and the grandson of Cesare. My father has always been there for me, providing help wherever it was needed,” he said.

The Italian youngster, who is still very much hopeful of making the grade in Italy, is approaching his experience in Maltese football with an open mind.

“I didn't know much about Malta before Ħamrun Spartans got in touch and it is a happy coincidence that my new team dons the same colours of Milan,” Maldini said.

“My foremost objective is to play well and help the team reach its targets.

“After that we will see. But, my priority is to do well for Ħamrun, that is what I’m focusing on.

“This is going to be a very important year for me. I’m coming here to play and to discover what future lies ahead.”

Christian Maldini poses with a Ħamrun Spartans scarf, yesterday. Photo: Mark Zammit Cordina