THE A-League’s worst kept secret is out — Aaron Mooy is leaving Melbourne City.

But the talented Socceroos midfielder is staying in the City Group family, as he has been transferred to parent club Manchester City on a three-year deal.

And while Mooy is leaving for England, Luke Brattan is coming back the other way, with the former Brisbane Roar midfielder joining Melbourne City on loan from Manchester City for the upcoming season.

Mooy’s move isn’t likely to materialise in to English Premier League minutes just yet — not this season at least — with a loan move elsewhere in Europe likely for the 25-year-old.

But after two stunning seasons for City in which he won two club best and fairest awards and solidified a spot in the national team’s starting line-up, the move abroad is a significant step forward in his career development.

media_camera Aaron Mooy has made significant progress in recent seasons and cauight the eye for the Socceroos. Picture: Michael Klein

Mooy’s departure leaves City with no marquee players on its books considering former international marquee Robert Koren left midway through last season.

The club is negotiating with last year’s golden boot winner Bruno Fornaroli about a new deal which could promote him to marquee status.

Should a rumoured bid for Tim Cahill’s services come to fruition, he is likely to fill the club’s 12-month guest player slot.

City also this morning confirmed the re-signing of attacking midfielder Anthony Caceres.

media_camera Melbourne City has re-signed Anthony Caceres. Picture: George Salpigtidis

Having already played 11 games for City on loan from Manchester in the back end of 2015-16, Caceres’ contract in Melbourne has been extended for another year.

Brian Marwood, Managing Director of City Football Services, said of Mooy: “Aaron is an extremely talented player who possesses the attributes we hope to foster and encourage within the City Football Group.

“With the unique model CFG provides, Aaron’s move to Manchester allows us to further expose him to a high standard of opportunities to ensure his professional growth.”