The 31-year-old, who played three seasons in Spain’s top flight with Racing Santander, has been snapped up on a one-year deal.

More recently, he played in Spain’s second division with Mallorca, making 52 appearances and scoring 10 goals over the past two seasons.

Roar coach John Aloisi said a signing of Arana's calibre was a boost to the squad ahead of the new season.

"Manuel is footballer with a great deal of experience playing at the top level who will suit the Brisbane Roar style of play," he said.

"He is a winger with an eye for goal, very versatile and can play anywhere in the front three. It is important that we have competition for places and players that are going to push each other.

"Most importantly he is a great person who I believe will definitely fit into our club culture."

Roar take on Melbourne Victory on Friday at Suncorp Stadium.

Arana said: “I am very happy and honoured to have joined such a successful club.

“I am very excited to be in Brisbane and can’t wait to get on the field and wear the Orange jersey for the first time.”

Roar's newest visa player contacted Western Sydney Wanderers' midfielder Dimas Delgado, gathering information about the A-League and Australia in general.

“My former teammate Dimas has been telling me about the style of football here in Australia,” Arana said.

“I know that the A-League is a high quality, fast and physical footballing league that I believe will suit my style of play.”

The right-footed winger is comfortable playing on the left or right side of the field, and will give the Queensland outfit even more options in the final third.