Melbourne City striker Bruno Fornaroli has been elevated into a marquee position ahead of the 2016-17 A-League season.

The 28-year-old has signed a new three-year deal with the club, which will see him in City colours until the end of the 2018-19 season.

Fornaroli was delighted to extend his stay in Melbourne, as has ambitions to win trophies at City.

“I am really happy to be with this Club; my first season was very enjoyable, but I want to stay here, hopefully improve more and help the team be successful and achieve its potential,” Fornaroli said.

“The players, coaching staff, the facilities and the support provided to players is amazing. It is a very professional and family friendly club, which plays the type of football I like to play and this is where I want to be.

“My family and I have been made to feel very welcome; we love the Club, the city, the lifestyle, the culture and Melbourne, but first and foremost I am here to play football and win for this Club.”

Head Coach John van't Schip was equally pleased at the Uruguayan's new deal, stating he was a key player in last season's fourth placed finish.

“Bruno is so important to us; the way he plays, the way he fits into the structure, his leadership and work ethic make him very important to us," van't Schip said.

“Last season Bruno demonstrated his ability, making a significant contribution to the team and playing in an entertaining and determined way. He not only scored a record number of goals, but he provided an important link between attack and midfield.”

Fornaroli was awarded the Golden Boot after 25 goals in 27 matches throughout the regular season, and was also named as City's Player of the Year.