This pic of Tim Cahill posing with Andrea Pirlo, Frank Lampard and David Villa appeared on social media this evening, apparently confirming the Socceroos legend's impending arrival in the A-League.

Although apparently shot in New York with the Italy, Spain and England veterans - who all play for Manchester City's sister club NYCFC - Cahill is pictured wearing a Melbourne City top.

The shots appear to confirm Cahill's move to the domestic Australian league is now set to be confirmed by the player and club within hours.

Cahill's long awaited move to the A-League is being underwritten by the FFA under a controversial new marquee deal to raise the profile of the league.

However critics question why cash-rich Melbourne City should be subsidised by the FFA when there are other clubs with more limited resources in need of star quality.

City supporters however are unlikely to complain if they get to see the Socceroos all-time record goalscorer turning out at AAMI Park in their colours – and taking selfies with fans.