Melbourne Victory Academy product Steven Havales has signed with Swiss Super League club FC Basel until the end of the 2022 season.
The 19-year-old defender joined Victory in 2017 and spent the last four seasons in the Club’s academy system.
Havales says signing with FC Basel is a dream come true.
“I want to give a special thanks to Melbourne Victory Football Club for helping me develop into the player and person I am today and especially to Jeff Hopkins for his mentoring and guidance,” Havales said.
“I also want to thank FC Basel for giving me the opportunity to become a professional footballer.
“This has been a long-time dream for me since I was 6 years old and I can’t wait to get started.”
Melbourne Victory Director of Football John Didulica says Havales’ move is a testament to his drive and the support networks he has in place.
“Steven, with the support of this family, has worked hard to put himself in a position to get a chance and as a club we will support him as much as we need to,” Didulica said.
“The Club has worked closely with FC Basel, Steven’s family and his representatives to ensure Steven had a genuine chance to pursue this opportunity.
“We are proud to see an academy graduate be given such a wonderful experience.”
