Impact Make It Official: Nesta Signs, Won't Be A Designated Player

Alessandro Nesta Officially Signs With Montreal Impact

Alessandro Nesta is officially a member of the Montreal Impact. The legendary Italian centerback will be eligible to play as soon as the Impact receive his international transfer certificate. Although his contract is reportedly worth about $1 million, he will not count as a Designated Player for at least this year.

"I'm very happy to be here," Alessandro Nesta said in a team release. "Despite some offers to continue my career in Europe, I was looking for a new challenge and wanted to play in MLS. Upon visiting my friend Marco (Di Vaio) to see him play his first game with Montreal, I met great people in this club. I really liked what I saw and I was convinced Montreal was where I wanted to be."

In order to acquire Nesta's rights, the Impact were forced to send allocation money to the New York Red Bulls, who apparently had a discovery claim on the 36-year-old.

Nesta immediately becomes one of the most decorated players in MLS history. He has appeared in more than 400 Serie A matches, more than 100 UEFA Champions League matches and has played for three of Italy's World Cup teams, including the 2006 champions. He's also won the Serie A Defender of the Year four times.

"It's an incredible opportunity for our club to add a defender of his talent," said Impact head coach Jesse Marsch. "We are very anxious to get him into our lineup because he will make us better on every level."

For more on the signing, be sure to visit Mount Royal Soccer.

Impact Closing In On Non-DP Deal For Italian Star Alessandro Nesta

Impact say Alessandro Nesta has verbally agreed to an 18-month contract that will pay him less than a Designated Player's wage.