East Bengal FC continue to maintain their proactive stance in the transfer market. After securing high-profile foreign players like Dimitrios Diamantakos and Madih Talal, their focus now shifted towards acquiring top-tier Indian talent. They have successfully secured the signing of Indian international Jeakson Singh on a four-year deal.

Singh's arrival was announced on Friday morning. Later that day, the 23-year-old walked out in front of the Red and Gold faithful during halftime of their reserves side match against Police AC in the Calcutta Football League (CFL).

The fans warmly welcomed their newest recruit, as his signing set to address East Bengal FC’s long-standing quest for a reliable defensive midfielder. Singh brings fresh energy and could be the crucial element needed in their dynamic midfield.

Here’s how his addition strengthens East Bengal FC’s squad ahead of what promises to be a demanding season for the Red and Gold Brigade, who will represent the nation on the continental stage after a 12-year hiatus.

Jeakson Singh: An asset in the middle of the park

Singh, who is celebrated as the only Indian goalscorer at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, made a significant impact during his time with the Indian Arrows in the 2017-18 season. His standout performances with the AIFF-owned team earned him a move to Kerala Blasters FC in the following season. Initially joining the Blasters' reserve side, Singh was later loaned back to the Indian Arrows, where he continued his impressive football.

In the 2019-20 season, Singh was promoted to the senior squad of Kerala Blasters FC, where he quickly became a vital asset with his exceptional game awareness and intelligence. Over five seasons with the Blasters' senior team, he made 86 appearances, including 76 in the Indian Super League (ISL). In the league, Singh made 2,227 passes with an accuracy of 82%, along with 405 recoveries, 102 interceptions, and 62 clearances, showcasing his defensive prowess. Offensively, he created 26 chances, scored two goals, and provided two assists.

Singh has also made significant strides with the national team. Since his debut for the Blue Tigers in 2021, he has earned 21 caps and provided one assist. The Manipur-born midfielder has won the SAFF Championship twice and the Intercontinental Cup once with India.

How Jeakson Singh could become the ideal fit in East Bengal FC's midfield?

East Bengal FC have clearly shown their ambition in the transfer market, actively pursuing top talent since the start of the summer window. Jeakson Singh, one of the most coveted midfielders in Indian football, brings the energy and physicality that the team needs in midfield.

Carles Cuadrat’s squad struggled midway through last season due to injuries to key players like Saul Crespo and Jose Pardo, with Souvik Chakrabarti being the only dependable midfielder during critical moments.

Singh’s signing represents a major upgrade over Chakrabarti. While Chakrabarti’s tireless work rate and defensive contributions were valuable, his limitations in advancing the ball and supporting attacking plays were evident. Singh, in contrast, is known for his ability to regain possession, his resolute tackling, and his efficiency in ball progression into the final third.

His arrival will not only give Crespo and Madih Talal more freedom to make attacking runs and deliver incisive passes but also serve as a crucial shield for the backline. With Singh anchoring the midfield, the combination of Singh, Crespo, and Talal could create a formidable midfield trio for East Bengal FC in the coming seasons.

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