VETERAN Italian striker Massimo Maccarone has joined Brisbane Roar, coach John Aloisi has confirmed.

The 37-year-old former Sampdoria, Empoli and Middlesbrough striker has signed a one-season marquee deal with the three-time A-League champions.

“Massimo’s excited to be joining us,” Aloisi said.

“He’s still quick and he’s still scoring goals.”

Maccarone was a key member of the Middlesbrough side that reached a European final. Source: AP

Maccarone, capped twice for Italy, found the back of the netted seven times last season for Empoli, who were relegated from Serie A on the final day of the campaign.

He replaces departed attacker Jamie Maclaren, now with German second division club Darmstadt.

“Massimo not only makes great forward runs but he also links up with players around him very well,’ said Aloisi, who added that Maccarone’s experience would aid the development of teenage Roar striker Nick D’Agostino.

“He’s going to help Dags develop as a player a lot.”

Only last week there had been suggestions Maccarone was on his way to Perth, but Aloisi was always confident of securing the forward’s services.