He has signed a one-year deal after Fiorentina, where he played last season, opted not to offer him a new contract.

The 35-year-old striker spent the 1995/96 season at the Bergamo-based club and a string of impressive performances earned him a move to giants Juventus.

Vieri's second spell started after his absence from the 2006 World Cup because of injury and his departure to Fiorentina only a year later left a bitter taste in the mouths of Atalanta supporters, who felt he had betrayed the club which had given him the chance to regain form and fitness.

The majority of fans have therefore been against Vieri's return since it was first mooted earlier this summer, but the club have ignored their protests.

"Atalanta announces the signing of footballer Christian Vieri for the sporting season 2008-2009," read a statement on the club's website.

The veteran forward has also played for Atletico Madrid, Lazio and both Milan clubs.