Donachie returns to AAMI Park for a second spell, after 47 games over two seasons with Victory, including an integral role in the club’s championship triumph last season.

Kevin Muscat believes the return is coup as they enter the second half of the A-League season and move towards another Asian Champions League campaign.

“You don’t need to tell anyone at Melbourne Victory about James’s qualities,” Muscat said.

“He’s a class act both on and off the park and I’m sure our fans are as excited as I am to welcome him back.

“He’ll add to our defensive stocks and complement the players we’ve brought in across our back four. It’s fantastic to have him at our disposal again.”

Donachie has been issued the number 17 jersey.

In a separate deal, Ansell joins Jeonnam Dragons as a free agent.

Ansell departs having represented the club on 94 occasions. Melbourne Victory thanked Ansell for his contributions and wishes him well in the next phase of his career.