After being spotted watching the  Montreal Impact from a corporate box,  Italian defender Allesandro Nesta has finally put the rumors to rest and signed with the MLS franchise.

The 36-year-old is one of the top defenders of his generation, winning Serie A Defender of the Year four times for Lazio and AC Milan.

But according to Impact coach Jesse Marsch don't expect Nesta's new teammates to be starstruck.

“Eddie Sebrango asked me who the new guy was,” he joked. “From his humble manner to his working habits, I think already he’s had a positive influence on our group in one day. And I think that’s only going to get better. We’re excited to have him as part of the group and know that he’ll make us stronger.”

All joking aside, Nesta’s  reputation does precede him with his teammates. Defender Jeb Brovsky says it’s surreal to line up next to one of his childhood soccer idols.

“It’s amazing to be honest. Growing up watching him play, the entire Italian National team, those are guys that you look up to. And to have one in the locker room is amazing. Hopefully I can pick his brain and learn from him, and hopefully all of us do the same. “

The 2006 World Cup winner will officially be added to the roster when he receives his international transfer certificate, which could be up to three weeks.

The Impact will play against the Columbus Crew at Saputo Stadium (hear it live on CJAD 800 starting with the Countdown to Opening Kickoff at 7PM) where they will try to put a stop to a three game losing streak.