Valletta FC have finalised negotiations with Sliema W. to have defender Massimo Grima transferred to the Lilywhites on a permanent basis.

Massimo Grima had been on loan with Valletta FC in the past two seasons. At the end of last season, Sliema W. had made it clear that Massimo Grima had to be sold and not loaned again.

Marsaxlokk were also interest to acquire Grima’s services. On the other hand, the player indicated that the Lilywhites were his first preference.

Following lengthy negotiations, an agreement was finally reached between the Blues and Valletta, which now sees Massimo Grima rejoining the citizens for the third consecutive season, however this time on a permanent transfer.

Commenting on the club’s official website, Anton Abela, general secretary, confirmed that both the clubs as well as Massimo Grima put pen to paper, therefore completing the deal. “It is surely an important signing for Valletta FC. Massimo Grima was last season instrumental in our successful season and it’s a great pleasure for the committee to have managed to conclude such an important transfer, amidst obstacles and competition we encountered to conclude it.”

“Massimo Grima’s signing has been our second major signing in four days and our third so far. Hopefully this will not be the last,” he said.

Abela also said, in fact, that Valletta intend to strengthen the squad with some other new arrivals this week, among them possibly midfielder Trevor Templeman of Marsaxlokk.