The high-profile former AC Milan midfielder has inked a one-year marquee deal in a massive boost to the Champions' bid to go back-to-back.

Honda, 32, arrives fresh from helping his country reach the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup in Russia – but he missed today's presser announcing his move though, as he "still overseas".

Instead the club showed a video clip of his greatest moments instead.

His equaliser in a 2-2 group stage draw with Senegal improved his tally to a Japanese record of four goals on football’s biggest stage.

Considered a dead-ball specialist, Honda netted 13 times in all competitions for Mexican side Pachuca last term, having spent the previous three and a half seasons at Italian giants Milan.

Honda's list of achievements includes a Russian Premier League title with CSKA Moscow in 2013 and a Supercoppa Italiana triumph during his time in Serie A.

He was named Most Valuable Player at the 2011 AFC Asian Cup as Japan edged out Australia in the final.

“Today’s announcement that Keisuke Honda will be joining Melbourne Victory is a significant boon for the upcoming Hyundai A-League season,” FFA CEO David Gallop said.

“To have a player of his experience, calibre and marketability will also boost the Hyundai A-League’s image and reputation within the Asian region and around the world.

“I commend Melbourne Victory chairman Anthony Di Pietro and his Board, along with the club CEO Trent Jacobs and Head Coach Kevin Muscat, for the professional manner in which they conducted their negotiations with Keisuke’s management.

“Players such as Keisuke, who have made 98 international appearances including three at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, are in high demand around the world and to provide a compelling proposition to him which he accepted is a feat that should be applauded.

“In addition, I would also like to thank Fox Sports for supporting this signing through the marquee player fund and also recognise the important role that our Head of Hyundai A-League, Greg O’Rourke, and General Manager Leagues, Tracey Scott, played throughout the negotiations.

“With the start of the Hyundai A-League 2018/19 Season only 75 days away, I am sure that today’s announcement will pique the interest of all football fans who are eagerly awaiting the opening round,” Gallop concluded.