Serie A strugglers Catania have signed Maxi Lopez on a permanent transfer from FK Moscow.

The Argentinian striker has penned down a contract with the Sicilian outfit until June 2013. The 25-year-old joins Catania having played on loan at Brazilian side Gremio since February 2009.

A statement from the club read: "Catania Calcio announces the acquisition of the sporting rights of Maximiliano Gaston Lopez. Maxi Lopez has signed a contract with will keep him at the Rossazzurre club until 30 June 2013.''

The former Barcelona star will be unveiled to the media on Thursday. Catania are second from bottom in the standings, three points off safety after 20 games.