STAR Greater Western Sydney recruit Brett Deledio is expecting a torrid welcome from Richmond players and fans when they cross paths next season.

Deledio has arrived in Sydney and began training with his new club on Monday, after 12 seasons and 243 games with the Tigers, where he was a dual best and fairest winner, and two-time All Australian.

The 29-year-old said he's already penciled in the Giants' round nine clash with his old club at Spotless Stadium.

"I certainly know when it is," he laughed.

"The 'Tiger Army' were fantastic, they supported me through thick and thin, and I'd be disappointed if they didn't boo me or something at some stage."

"When you spend 12 years at a place you certainly get mixed emotions, I've got some great mates there, so it'll be fun running out against them.

"I'm sure they wouldn't mind getting into me, because we did that at training every second day.

"I'm glad we've got them up here first before we have to play them down there at the 'G."

Despite his impressive resume and experience, Deledio believes he'll have to fight for a place in Leon Cameron's best team next year.

His versatility makes him a highly valuable option, but although Cameron has told him he'll likely play as a forward, with some stints through the midfield, the former Tiger said he had started the pre-season in the same position as the rest of his new teammates, and had to prove himself all over again.

"Every player has to play their way into a spot (in the team)," he said.

"I think that’s the beauty of it, everyone is under pressure to perform and it really challenges you.

"The Giants really impressed me last season, the way they played was exciting, and if we can keep growing and challenging each other I certainly see us getting better again.

"I didn't get to play against them in Canberra last season, but the Tigers boys said it was their ability to run and spread, and they have good players across every line, so I'm looking forward to playing with them and not against them."

Deledio managed just 11 games with Richmond in 2016 thanks to a persistent calf problem, and said his difficult season played a part in his decision to seek a new home.

"The injuries took their toll a little bit and you're always frustrated when the team isn't going too well and you can't do anything to help," he said.

"It came to a point late in the season that I thought it might be time for a fresh start.

"It certainly wasn't an easy decision, but I'm feeling reinvigorated and ready to start a new chapter in my life.

"That's the biggest thing, being excited about having to impress new teammates and new coaches, and earn their respect.

"The easiest option would have been to stay in Melbourne, but I'm always up for a challenge and coming up here I see as the perfect challenge."

Deledio also confirmed he will takeover the No.7 number vacated by Rhys Palmer.