Western United close in on Berisha as final piece of jigsaw

A-League newcomers Western United have emerged as the hot favourites to land all-time A-League top scorer Besart Berisha.

Besart Berisha during his time with Sanfrecce Hiroshima Source: Getty Images

The four-time Championship winner has also been linked with Melbourne City, Wellington Phoenix and Central Coast after returning from a 13-month stint in Japan.

However, it appears Berisha, 34, will be the final piece of the jigsaw for coach Mark Rudan ahead of the Melbourne club’s debut season.

The impending capture of the former Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory talisman would bring extra pizzazz to United’s derby with Victory, as well as providing proven goal power up front in a veteran double act with 36-year-old Scott McDonald.

The naturalised Australian citizen’s recent return to the country following his release from Sanfrecce Hiroshima initially sparked scant interest from A-League clubs due, in part, to him not kicking a ball for his club all year.

However, as other targets became unattainable, Berisha loomed even larger on the radar with Western United, due to their salary cap dispensations, able to offer the largest lure.

The fiery forward, who has 106 A-League goals from 171 appearances, plans to remain in Melbourne when he retires to set up a coaching academy for kids.

His frustrating spell in Japan brought just six appearances off the bench without scoring.