BASEL, Switzerland — Swiss champion Basel says Austria forward Marc Janko has joined on a free transfer from Sydney.
Basel says Janko signed a one-year contract with an option for a second season.
The deal was announced Thursday on Janko’s 32nd birthday.
The move brings Janko closer to home ahead of the 2016 European Championship being played in France.
Janko has scored three goals to help unbeaten Austria lead a qualifying group that includes Sweden and Russia.
The 1.96-meter (6-foot-5) player scored a spectacular overhead kick in a 1-0 win at Russia this month.
Janko disputed Sydney’s statement last month that his international duties in Europe were a factor in him leaving the club after one season in Australia.
In July, Basel will enter the Champions League’s third qualifying round.