Birighitti ready to saddle up for Bulls

A-League newcomers Macarthur FC are close to securing Central Coast Mariners gloveman Mark Birighitti as their first choice goalkeeper for their impending entry into the competition.

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It’s believed Birighitti, 29, has rejected a lucrative three-season extension at Gosford to instead head to the Campbelltown-based club, whose only official signing to date is fellow Mariner and former Socceroos winger Tommy Oar.

The shot-stopper joined the Mariners nine months ago, after winning his release from Melbourne City where he played second fiddle to Eugene Galekovic.

It’s understood that the Bulls, who are due to convene for training at some point next month ahead of their scheduled entry into the league in October, have signed 13 players so far - including a number from overseas.

How the coronavirus shutdown and existing travel restrictions will affect those visa player deals remains to be seen.

Perth-born Birighitti, who has a single Socceroos cap, started his A-League career with Adelaide United and then Newcastle Jets, before heading offshore where he had stints with Championship club Swansea City - without breaking through - and NAC Breda.

He made 16 appearances for the Eredivisie outfit prior to returning to Australia in 2018, and has racked up 22 appearances for Central Coast.

Birighitti’s likely exit would leave a void at the Mariners, where understudy Adam Pearce, 23, has yet to make an A-League appearance.

Macarthur, who will be coached by Matildas mentor and former Socceroos assistant Ante Milicic, were contacted for comment.