There had been reports of the switch following Rafael Marquez' departure from New York last week.

Andy Roxburgh, the club’s sporting director, said: "Juninho is a world-class player who our global sporting director, Gerard Houllier, and I have known and admired for many years.

"Aside from being a top dead-ball specialist and a tremendous talent, Juninho is a fantastic professional both on and off the field.

"He is in great physical shape, and we think he can make a positive impact for us in 2013."