Wales, 20, made a number eye-catching cameos last season for Central Coast last season, having grown up in Terrigal and spending four years at the Mariners academy.

But the attacking midfielder has opted to continue his career at City, which is fast becoming the destination club for promising Australian talents.

The club played a major hand in Arzani's stunning rise from A-League bench weapon into World Cup sensation, with several big European clubs reportedly keen on signing him.

Wales is hopeful of following in his footsteps and using the club as a springboard for bigger and better things.

"I just think the environment City have here with all their facilities... it was just a complete shock to me and made me very excited as a player," he said.

"I think I'll bring a lot of energy. I'm very positive on the ball, I love to get at my player and beat them one-on-one and slip in some of the strikers for a few assists.

"They have some very dynamic players which I look forward to linking up with, the likes of Arzani and Fornaroli ... it's going to be very competitive to get a spot each week and I look forward to the challenge."

Wales is one of three player movements confirmed by City on Monday.

They also announced the return of Anthony Caceres, another former Mariners player, on a loan deal.

Caceres, 25, is owned by parent club Manchester City and spent last season on loan to Al-Wasl in the UAE Pro League.

He has played two previous seasons with Melbourne City, providing coach Warren Joyce with further midfield options after the release of marquee Marcin Budzinski and Oliver Bozanic, who have since signed for Polish side KS Cracovia and Scottish club Hearts respectively.

Defensive utility Osama Malik, meanwhile, has signed on for another season.

Australian Associated Press