Victory add Paraguayan forward in ALM finals push

Melbourne Victory have signed Fernando Romero on loan from Paraguayan Primera Division side Cerro Porteno until the end of the A-League Men season.

 TONY POPOVIC. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Melbourne Victory's signing spree has continued with the acquisition of Paraguayan forward Fernando Romero until the end of the A-League Men season.

The 22-year-old has signed a short-term deal on loan from Paraguayan Primera Division side Cerro Porteno.

He will add to coach Tony Popovic's attacking options following the departure of Nick D'Agostino to Norway and the loss to injury of former Manchester United star Luis Nani.

"Fernando is an exciting talent who has the ability to play across the front line and we're looking forward to seeing him play for our club," Popovic said.

"He is a young prospect who already has very valuable experience across competitions such as the Copa Libertadores and we believe he has the ability to bring something special to Melbourne Victory."

Romero is Victory's fourth signing of the mid-season transfer window as Popovic's last-placed side attempts to revive its finals push.

The Melbourne club lie six points off a top-six place, with a game in hand over most of their rivals.

The Paraguayan follows Bruce Kamau, Connor Chapman and veteran French defender Damien Da Silva to the club, while Victory also secured veteran striker Bruno Fornaroli to a permanent deal.

Romero previously played with Paraguay's Nacional and Guairena FC, and has never previously plied his trade outside his native country.

"I'm excited to be able to join Melbourne Victory and can't wait to get started at the club," Romero said.

"I want to show the fans what I can do as a footballer and repay the faith the club has put in me to represent this proud club.

"This is a new challenge for me but a challenge that I'm looking forward to and ready to deliver."

Victory snapped a six-match winless run in last week's 3-1 defeat of Wellington Phoenix and travel to face Newcastle Jets at Hunter Stadium on Sunday.


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