Football

East Bengal Target Abhishek Tekcham Singh as Rebuild Begins; Melroy Assisi Set for Diamond Harbour FC Switch

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.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

India’s Junior Men Clinch Bronze with Gritty 2-1 Win Over Australia in Four Nations Tournament

The Indian junior men’s hockey team wrapped up their campaign at the Four Nations Tournament… Read More

June 26, 2025

Suryakumar Yadav Undergoes Successful Sports Hernia Surgery, Eyes Return for Bangladesh Tour

India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has successfully undergone surgery for a sports hernia in his… Read More

June 26, 2025

Golden Glove Winner Jaspreet Singh Joins Bengaluru FC in Key Summer Move

Bengaluru FC have taken a decisive step toward rebuilding their squad by signing goalkeeper Jaspreet… Read More

June 26, 2025

Ravi Shastri says opening Test loss against England is a tough pill to swallow for India

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri believes the opening Test loss against England is a… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says England batters’ approach made Jasprit Bumrah desperate for wickets in 2nd innings of 1st Test

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes England batters were able to find a way… Read More

June 26, 2025

Varun Aaron says Karun Nair will be disappointed with his opening Test performance against England

Former Indian fast bowler Varun Aaron believes Karun Nair will be disappointed after he failed… Read More

June 26, 2025