Indian football ace Baichung Bhutia will don the colours of National champions East Bengal next season and turn out for the club at the forthcoming Asean Cup championship and Asian Club Cup.
Making the announcement at a press conference in Kolkata, Bhutia said, "I decided to join East Bengal in view of the club's ambitious projects to make it big at international tournaments. I wanted to be associated with their ambition."
The nimble-footed striker, who spent a dismal year last season with arch-rivals Mohun Bagan after a three-year stint with English club Bury FC, will sign the contract on Tuesday.
About his reported negotiations with a top Singapore outfit, Bhutia said he had offers from two sides -- Woodlands and Marine Castle -- but "it did not match my expectations".
Refusing to disclose the exact amount the former India skipper will be paid, East Bengal sources said the club had made an offer close to Rs two million.
East Bengal coach Subhash Bhowmick, who was also present at the press meet, said, "Baichung was part of my planning for the international engagements. I need his services to make a strong side capable of faring well in these international tournaments."
Commenting on the East Bengal team, which has roped in a number of India internationals, Baichung said, "It is a very well-balanced side. The club is showing professional attitude to raise Indian soccer standards. It is very important to look beyond domestic tournaments."
He also appreciated the club's move to appoint South African physical trainer Kevin Jackson to get the team in shape before the Asean Cup championship in July.
Asked about his dues from Mohun Bagan, Bhutia said he wants to cooperate with the club and hopes to sort out the problem in due course of time.
Mohun Bagan allegedly owes Bhutia about 50 per cent of his last season's fees.
Asked whether he would appeal to soccer governing bodies AIFF or FIFA to recover the dues, he said, "I don't want to take any drastic steps and want to resolve it through talks."
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