The Roar's search for a marquee striker is over after Italian veteran Maccarone agreed to join on a one-year deal.

The two-time international, who is coming off a five-goal, 28-game Serie A season for Empoli, will be 38 by the time the new A-League season begins.

The Roar have dismissed concerns about Maccarone's age but former Central Coast coach Moss warned a combination of physicality and Australian conditions made the A-League a tough competition.

"The A-League is a very physical league. It's a fast league," Moss told Sky Sports Radio, where he is a daily pundit.

"Legs are absolutely crucial, and mobility.

"The one constant message that comes out of players who come - either Socceroos who come back to Australia or foreigners who come to our league - always talk about how quick it is.

"You've got the (Australian summer) conditions to deal with, the hard pitches. Sometimes Sunday four o'clock it's 30-35 degrees. So it'll be interesting."

Moss conceded any criticism of the Roar's recruiting would dissipate if Maccarone scored prolifically.

The signing continues Brisbane's attacking overhaul following the departures of Jamie Maclaren, Brandon Borrello, Thomas Broich and Tommy Oar.

The club's football director Craig Moore defended the signing of Maccarone, who is the second player to move to the A-League directly from Serie A after the legendary Alessandro Del Piero.

"How many other A-League clubs have got someone who played in the Serie A last season?" Moore told News Corp Australia.

"He has scored at the highest level for almost his entire career, and Italian players know how to keep themselves fit."