If things had played out slightly differently, James Troisi would be lining up in hostile territory for Saturday's Melbourne A-League derby.

The Socceroos' playmaker came within an inch of jumping ship to cross-town rivals Melbourne City after contract negotiations with Victory fell apart during the off-season.

Not since Harry Kewell signed with (the then) Melbourne Heart in 2013 had such a high-profile player switched between the two clubs.

But Troisi, who also explored options overseas and had interest from A-League champions Sydney FC, admitted he was poised to make the leap before Victory won him over in late July with a two-year contract offer.

"(I was) very close," Troisi said.

"We were in talks but there was no medicals done - just talks and negotiations. Sydney FC was the same as well.

"At one stage, things at Victory looked to be off the table so, as a player, as a coach, you have to look and see what other options you have."

After finishing fourth in last season's Johnny Warren Medal count, Troisi flirted with a return to European football but was unable to find a suitable home.

The risk that a fresh start overseas could compromise his form with a World Cup around the corner was also part of his decision-making.

But Troisi acknowledged he wouldn't have contemplated remaining in the A-League unless it involved playing for a top contender.

"No disrespect, but I wouldn't be moving to a Central Coast or a Newcastle or anything like that," he said.

"All credit to City, to be honest. They handled the whole situation really well. There's no hard feelings. That's football.

"I'm happy that things got sorted out at Victory, which is what I wanted. It all worked out and I'm looking forward to having a good season with them."

Troisi's first encounter with City since his eventful off-season is bound to be an intriguing sub-plot to Saturday's hotly anticipated derby.

But the 29-year-old insisted the Etihad Stadium clash would be just another game for him.

"The derby's going to be fun but there's going to be no extra motivation, no hard feelings, no anything," Troisi said.

"I'm a Victory player. I know everyone wants to make a big story and a big deal out of things ... but it is what it is."