The 37-year-old, a recent back-up to Mat Ryan in Graham Arnold's national squad, did not feature in the Dutch Eredivisie for NEC Nijmegen after signing for the club last year.

But he is certain to get much-needed time between the posts with the Mariners ahead of the World Cup in Qatar, which begins in November, having inked a deal for the 2022-23 ALM season.

Vukovic previously made 104 appearances for Central Coast from 2005 to 2010.

"Bringing Danny back to the club is a massive signing for us on and off the pitch," Mariners coach Nick Montgomery said.

"He is a top-class goalkeeper and a great person who will add so much value and experience to this young squad.

"He has played at the highest level in Europe, is a real family man and is well known in our community.

"To bring him home to play in Australia and hopefully help him make selection for the World Cup at the end of the year would be a special thing."

Vukovic is aiming for a second World Cup appearance, having been in Bert van Marwijk's 2018 squad in Russia.

The veteran gloveman enjoyed a successful spell with Belgian club Genk before moving to NEC Nijmegen in June last year and has also spent time overseas in Turkey and Japan.

Vukovic has kept 85 clean sheets in the ALM, following previous stints with the Mariners, Wellington Phoenix, Perth Glory, Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory.

Australian Associated Press