Brisbane Roar are adding a strong Greek flavour to their 2025/26 A-League squad, confirming the signing of Young Socceroos defender Dimitri Valkanis on loan from Greek Super League giants AEK Athens.
Nineteen-year-old Valkanis joins for the season after the Roar fended off competition from several A-League rivals.
The centre-back, who has represented Australia at Under-17, Under-19 and Under-20 level, played every match for AEK Athens’ ‘B’ team last season while training regularly with the senior squad.
“I’m absolutely stoked to sign with Brisbane Roar,” Valkanis said in a club announcement.
“This is a club with a proud history, big ambitions, and an incredibly passionate fan base. I’m ready to give everything for the badge and represent this city with pride.”
Head coach Michael Valkanis praised the youngster’s maturity and leadership.
“Dimitri is a talented, tough defender and an excellent communicator. He will add strength to our backline and bolster our defensive stocks,” he said.
Valkanis becomes one of several off-season recruits as Brisbane continue to rebuild ahead of the new campaign.
