Chennaiyin FC have signed Romanian winger Dragos Firtulescu on a free transfer for the Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) 2019-20 campaign. The 30-year-old played for Bulgarian top tier side FC Dunav 2010 Ruse last season, scoring thrice and registering four assists in 15 matches.

Dragos began his professional career with Romanian outfit Universitatea Craiova and went on to represent several top clubs in his country like Universitatea Cluj and Dinamo Bukarest. The winger also has experience playing abroad and has had stints in Cyprus with Alki Larnaca, in Hungary with Kaposvár and most recently in Bulgaria.

Having signed for Chennaiyin for the 2019-20 campaign, it will be Dragos' first venture outside Europe. However, the Romanian will have a familiar face in the Chennaiyin dressing room in fellow countryman Lucian Goian - who recently joined the two-time champions from Mumbai City FC. Dragos has played against Goian in the past during their time at Romania.

On the international level, Dragos has represented the Romanian national team at youth levels.

"I am very happy to sign with the two-time ISL champions Chennaiyin FC. I wish to taste success with the club and create lasting memories in my time here. I will work hard and prove that I am worthy of wearing the colours of this wonderful club. I have confidence in the Head Coach’s (John Gregory) plans, and I wish to repay the faith bestowed in me with my performances on the pitch. It feels great to be a part of the Chennaiyin family," Dragos said after completing the deal.

"I hope the fans will fill our stadium in great numbers in the coming season. We will give our everything to put on a solid show and give the fans what they deserve. Without them, we simply cannot succeed. With the fans, we are more powerful and hungrier to achieve success," he added.

Chennaiyin head coach John Gregory, too, shared his thoughts about the latest addition to his squad and said, "Dragos adds a lot of depth in an attacking context for us. He brings plenty of energy, enthusiasm and experience to the table. His attitude is extremely positive, and I am certain he will prove a valuable addition to our squad even off the field. He has all the makings of becoming a fan favourite, in my opinion. I can’t wait to see him and the rest of the boys on the training pitch in pre-season."