Marsaxlokk have finally got the player they had been chasing for the last seven months.

David Carabott's return to his home club was rubber-stamped yesterday when the southerners reached agreement with Valletta for the services of the 35-year-old wing-back. Carabott's contract with Valletta had two more years left to run but after protracted discussions, the Citizens accepted Marsaxlokk's bid.

Anton Abela, secretary of Valletta FC, confirmed the move.

"We have been engaged in talks with Marsaxlokk and this morning we have agreed terms for Carabott's transfer," Abela said yesterday.

Carabott, Malta's most capped player with a record 117 appearances, said he was pleased about returning to Marsaxlokk.

"I believe the timing of my return could not have been better," he said.

"Marsaxlokk want to establish themselves as one of the top teams in Malta and their efforts in the transfer market epitomise their ambitions. The club's rise owes to the invaluable contribution of president Victor Sciriha," Carabott said.

Carabott's prospects of seeing out the remainder of his contract with Valletta appeared very remote after the player's request for a free release was recently turned down by the MFA Players' and Coaches' Complaints Board.

Although his relationship with the City club may have suffered as a result of his request, Carabott insisted that the differences with Valletta were not big.

"The problems were not as serious as some may have suggested," Carabott said. "It's true that I had set heart on moving to Marsaxlokk but only because I thought it fitting to return to my first love. My career began with Marsaxlokk when I was 14 before moving to two of the best clubs in Malta.

"With Hibs I won several honours and in my first season with Valletta, I was part of the team that achieved a unique six-trophy feat. I take this opportunity to thank Valletta FC for their support during my stay with them. I have no regrets about my move there three years ago," Carabott added.

Carabott has yet to sign his contract with Marsaxlokk but has made up his mind to don the club's colours for as long as Sciriha is at the helm of the club.

"I am 35 years old but I cannot say that Marsaxlokk are going to be my last stop. But as long as Sciriha is president, I will continue to play for Marsaxlokk because I want to repay the trust he has shown in me. Had it not been for his efforts, I don't think this move would have been possible."

Marsaxlokk have agreed to pay Valletta a transfer fee for Carabott. Based on MFA parameters, the fee does not exceed Lm7,000. Provided that the transfer is approved by the MFA, the money will be administered by the association as Valletta are currently banned from indulging in any transfer activity.

Last Monday, John Farrugia, MFA vice-president and chairman of the Licensing Board, said that those clubs whose licence comprises a number of conditions, cannot buy new players unless their ban is lifted. Moreover, any income from transfers will be used to reduce their debts with other parties.

Marsaxlokk have been heavily involved in the transfer wheelings and dealings in their bid to strengthen their squad.

While the signings of David Camilleri and Kevin Mamo have been confirmed, they are still waiting for the Malta FA's green light to secure the services of Hamrun Spartans skipper Charlò Magro and Nikolai Slavtchev, who played for Marsa last season. Marsaxlokk, now under the guidance of Robert Kelly, also have three English players on trial.

Although Marsaxlokk are widely tipped to make a bigger impact on the Premier League after their sixth-place finish last year, Carabott urged caution.

"There is no doubting the club's commitment towards reaching new heights and I am confident that Marsaxlokk will be stronger, considering the players that have already been added to the squad.

"However, we all know that football is an unpredictable game and new players cannot guarantee instant success," Carabott said.

Carabott is the second player to leave the Citizens after Chris Oretan. The Nigerian striker has failed to reach an agreement to renew his contract after three years at the club.

Agius stays, Sciberras interest

The rumour-mill also linked Valletta skipper Gilbert Agius with a move elsewhere but club secretary Abela dispelled such speculation.

"Valletta FC want to make it absolutely clear that Gilbert Agius is not for sale. He is a crucial member of the team and our plans are aimed at building a strong team around him.

"We always had and still have great faith in Agius who has now been promoted to team skipper," Abela insisted.

Floriana, one of three clubs in the Premier League who were granted a conditional licence, are interested in Pietà Hotspurs' U-21 midfielder Gareth Sciberras. However, their request is expected to be instantly dismissed by the Hotspurs.

Pietà had also been close to signing Marsa's Nigerian striker Anthony EviParker but negotiations have stalled.

The Hotspurs are now likely to look elsewhere to acquire a third foreign player. Italian defender Mauro Di Lello has been offered a new contract and has already begun to train with the Hotspurs. Giacomo Paniccia is also expected to link up with the squad during a training camp in Italy between August 1 and 11.

Zejlko Anicic, a midfielder from Serbia and Montenegro, has started a trial with the Hotspurs who have confirmed former Malta U-21 mentor Ray 'Zazu' Farrugia as coach.