Kolkata, July 19 (HS). East Bengal on Friday signed Indian midfielder Jackson Singh Thounaojam from Kerala Blasters on a four-year deal. The transfer fee paid by East Bengal for Jackson's services was not disclosed.

Jackson, who hails from Manipur, has been a mainstay of the Indian national team's midfield for the past three years. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder has played 22 matches for the national team so far and has been a vital part of the Blue Tigers' victorious SAFF Championship (2021, 2023), Tri-Nation Series (2023) and Intercontinental Cup (2023) teams.

He was India's first and only scorer in a FIFA World Cup (against Colombia in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup).

Jackson, who represented Kerala Blasters in 78 Indian Super League matches, has registered two goals, two assists, 82% passing accuracy, 274 successful duels, 84 successful aerial duels, 405 recoveries, 102 interceptions and 62 clearances.

After signing with the club, Jackson said, “I am honoured and thrilled to join this historic club. The unwavering support and energy of East Bengal fans is truly inspiring and I look forward to contributing to its rich legacy and giving my best for them on and off the field. Together, we will achieve great things and create unforgettable memories in the days to come.”

Speaking on the signing, head coach Carles Cuadrat said, “Jackson is a national team player who will be a vital component of our midfield. We had a very productive conversation in which we discussed what this move could mean for his career and for our club. He is ready to accept a challenge that could make him one of the team's leaders for the future.”

Welcoming Jackson to the Red & Gold family, Vibhas Vardhan Agarwal of Emami Group said, “Jackson is one of the finest midfielders in the country and is an integral part of the Indian national team. He is very competitive and looks forward to playing in front of our passionate fans and giving his best for the East Bengal badge. Credit goes to our technical team for making this deal possible.”