Indian Super League (ISL) side NorthEast United FC on Monday announced the signing of Australian striker Tomi Juric on a free transfer. 

Tomi Juric is a decorated player, who has been capped 41 times for the Socceroos and was part of the AFC Asian Cup winning squad in 2015 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Juric has had successful stints across Europe and Asia, notably at Western Sydney Wanderers, where he won the AFC Champions League, FC Luzern, Roda JC, and more recently, Melbourne Victory. 

The Australian international, known for his goal-scoring ability and winning mentality on the field, brings a wealth of experience to the Highlanders. 

Expressing his excitement about joining NorthEast United FC, Juric stated, "I'm eager to contribute to NorthEast United's journey in the Indian Super League. I am ready to help the team achieve its goals for the season. It's a new challenge, and I am committed to giving my all for the fans and the club." 

Head Coach Juan Pedro Benali commended Juric's class, saying, "Tomi is a top-class player with a lot of experience playing at the highest level. His achievements, along with his goal-scoring ability, make him a valuable addition to our squad. We believe his presence will be a game changer." 

The club's CEO, Mandar Tamhane expressed confidence in this acquisition, stating, "We are very happy to welcome Tomi Juric to NorthEast United FC. He brings with him valuable experience and winning mentality to the squad having won the AFC Campions League and Asian Cup. We believe he has all the qualities we need as we head into the business end of the league.” 

Danish striker Oliver Drost replaces Curtis Main at Bengaluru FC  

ISL side Bengaluru FC on Monday announced the signing of Danish striker Oliver Drost on a deal that lasts until the end of the 2023-24 season. 

The 28-year-old Drost, who last played for Danish first division club FC Helsingør, replaces English striker Curtis Main, who mutually parted ways with the Blues earlier this month. 

''I really hope that I can help the team with goals and assists, and that together, we can make the play-offs in the ISL,'' said Drost.

Drost, who primarily plays as a striker, but is also versatile on the wings, has spent his career solely in Denmark, even making appearances for the Denmark U-19 and U-20 teams. Drost began his youth career with Helsingør, while his first senior club was Boldklubben af 1893. He had separate stints at AC Horsens, a season at Kolding IF, before returning back to Helsingør.

Speaking on the signing, Darren Caldeira, the Indian club's director of football, said, ''He brings with him enough experience of playing in the Danish League, and we've liked what we've seen. We are confident of staging a stronger second half of the season, and we believe that Oliver will play his part in helping us achieve this.'' 

Bengaluru manager Gerard Zaragoza said the club took its time with identifying a striker, and feels Drost fits into his system well. 

''Oliver (Drost) is a No.9 with the heart of a No.10. He is a striker, but also enjoys playing just outside the box, and given the style of football we play, this could be great. We spent a fair amount of time searching for the ideal replacement, because we wanted to bring in someone who suits our style the best, and when I saw Oliver, I got the impression that he could be that player.'' 

Drost will don the number nine shirt for Bengaluru FC.

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Bengaluru FCNorthEast United FC2023-2024