Birkirkara FC announced the capture of Etienne Barbara from Marsaxlokk yesterday, despite the rife rumours in previous days that the striker was about to join champions Sliema Wanderers during the January transfer market.

Instead, the deal was sealed yesterday as Barbara signed a three-year contract with the Stripes, who are expected to hand in his registration at the MFA’s office in time to make him eligible to play in the Premier League match against his former club Floriana tomorrow.

In fact Etienne Barbara had joined Marsaxlokk from Floriana in January 2003. The move to Birkirkara comes after only two seasons with the Southseasiders.

The international striker has been Birkirkara’s target for the last few years and finally they beat Sliema for his signature.

Meanwhile, Birkirkara also announced on their official web site the acquisition of 27-year old defender Antonio Saliba from First Division side San Gwann. Saliba,a right wing defender joins Birkirkara on loan till the end of the season. Saliba, who is a Valletta nursery product, was voted as First Division best player last season.

It is understood that Birkirkara intend to remain active on the transfer market till the end of January deadline.