Phoenix on the Brink of Finalising New Visa Signing: ‘That’s All the Hints I’ll Provide’

Wellington Phoenix’s head coach, Giancarlo Italiano, has revealed that the Isuzu UTE A-League club is poised to announce a new overseas signing next week, following a comprehensive scouting mission across South America and Europe to compensate for the absence of injured forward Marco Rojas.

Rojas made his return to the Phoenix ahead of the 2024-25 season, but an ankle injury is now expected to sideline the New Zealand international for a significant portion of the season.

The exit of Englishman David Ball in January opened a vital visa slot for the Phoenix to fill during the transfer window, and Wellington is anticipated to take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen their squad with a signing comparable to Rojas in attacking prowess.

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Italiano stated that the Phoenix is “very close” to finalising the new signing, spotlighting that the delay in securing the incoming visa player’s contract will be clarified upon the official announcement of the player.

“We’re in the final stages at the moment,” Italiano said.

“It’s a somewhat unique situation. We might have wrapped it up earlier, possibly a week ago, but we will clarify the circumstances when we unveil the signing.”

“I’m hopeful they’ll arrive early next week and be ready to contribute immediately. Their availability will hinge on screenings and other factors, but I’m optimistic within the next fortnight.”

“It’s definitely an import, there’s no hiding that.”

“We’ve explored various markets, including South America and Europe – the European market is a bit more intricate, as most targets tend to prefer staying in Europe. Typically, they wait for transfer deadline day to pass before considering options outside Europe, including Asia.”

“Things are a bit different in South America. However, we’ve cast our net far and wide in search of a fitting replacement, and I believe we’ve done a commendable job.”

When reporters inquired if the new player was from South America, Italiano replied, “No. That’s the only hint I’ll offer.”

Following Rojas’ mid-December ankle injury, Italiano has had to adjust his attacking strategy this season.

He has shifted central midfielder Kazuki Nagasawa into a more advanced No. 10 position to connect with players like Hideki Ishige and Kosta Barbarouses in the final third.

“At the start of the season, I envisioned my front three as Kosta, Ishige, and Marco working in concert,” Italiano said.

“Unfortunately, I’ve only been able to field those three together for two halves all year. We glimpsed their potential against Macarthur and in a friendly against the Wanderers earlier in the season, which looked promising. I’ve now placed additional responsibilities on Kazu to step up; he has played in similar roles before. While he’s traditionally operated as a No. 10 earlier in his career, he has moved towards an eight or six role as he’s matured.”

“He’ll need time to adjust to that position again and foster chemistry with Kosta, Ishige, and others.”

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Italiano also addressed speculation regarding English Championship club Stoke City’s interest in 18-year-old Phoenix striker Luke Supyk prior to the closure of the English transfer window early Tuesday morning (AEDT).

Supyk inked a three-year contract with the Phoenix in 2023.

“I believe there was some interest from the club, but I’m uncertain where that stands now,” Italiano stated.

“I aim to keep every player I sign… While I’m pleased for him to receive interest from another club, my priority is to retain them here for as long as possible. Yet, if it’s the right opportunity for him and the offer is appropriate, we are more than willing to support his development.”

“It’s truly a case-by-case basis. For any young player, there’s a natural eagerness to play overseas and explore those opportunities. But, if they aren’t prepared—especially not just in terms of skills but also mentally—moving abroad could lead to extended periods in reserves, Under-23s, or Under-20s, causing them to return and potentially wishing they had gained more experience in the A-League to mature.”

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“When you think about the success of past Phoenix players moving overseas, it took time for Oldy (Ben Old). He spent four years in the system before making a move. Similarly, Waineo (Ben Waine) found it challenging to secure consistent playing time after his overseas transfer but had been with the environment for a couple of years.”

“The only exception among the players I’ve seen is Libby (Cacace). He was the quickest to rise, but even he spent two seasons here. It’s crucial for most players to gain as much experience as possible, adapt to the rigours of playing against older competitors, and solidify their development before taking the next step.”

“However, if the right opportunity arises, and the player feels ready, then we wish them all the best.”

Wellington will face Brisbane Roar at Sky Stadium in their upcoming Isuzu UTE A-League match on Thursday, February 7.

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