Promising Indian defender Abhishek Tekcham Singh is poised to join East Bengal ahead of the 2025-26 Indian Super League (ISL) season, as he prepares to depart Punjab FC. The 20-year-old has emerged as a key target in East Bengal’s ongoing rebuild under Head of Football Thangboi Singto.
Abhishek was a standout performer for Punjab in ISL 2024-25, making 22 appearances primarily as a full-back. Known for his energy and consistency, he created eight chances, won 86 duels, and dominated the flanks defensively with eight aerial duel wins. His performances earned him a call-up to the senior national team under coach Manolo Marquez.
He made a memorable debut for India in a friendly against Maldives in March, contributing to a 3-0 win and a clean sheet.
Despite having a year remaining on his Punjab FC contract, Abhishek attracted interest from several ISL clubs. East Bengal had made an early approach earlier in the year, but it was initially rejected. A revised offer has now been submitted and is expected to be accepted, making Abhishek one of the Red-and-Gold Brigade’s first major signings this summer.
East Bengal is aiming to bounce back from a disappointing campaign last season, which saw them eliminated in the first round of the Super Cup — a tournament eventually won by FC Goa. Under Singto, who is widely respected for his development of young talent at Hyderabad FC, Odisha FC, and Shillong Lajong, the club is shifting focus to nurturing youth and building for the long term.
Meanwhile, another Punjab FC player is set for a move. Centre-back Melroy Assisi is on his way to I-League side Diamond Harbour FC for the upcoming season. The West Bengal-based club, led by former Mohun Bagan I-League-winning coach Kibu Vicuna, has been on a meteoric rise through the Indian football tiers. With back-to-back promotions from I-League 3 to the I-League, they now have ISL promotion firmly in their sights.
Assisi, a versatile player capable of operating as both a ball-playing centre-back and a defensive midfielder, joined Punjab in 2023. He made 26 appearances and scored once, bringing composure and flexibility to the back line — qualities Diamond Harbour FC will be keen to harness as they continue their ascent.
As East Bengal looks to re-establish itself in the ISL and Diamond Harbour eyes top-tier status, both moves mark important steps in the evolving landscape of Indian football.
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