Indian Super League side East Bengal have agreed terms with FC Goa defender Ivan Gonzalez on a two-year deal, Football Monk can exclusively confirm.
Ivan’s current contract with FC Goa exists till 31st May. After his consistent performance in the previous two seasons, he was a top priority for East Bengal think tank.
Top Target for East Bengal
With the end of the Shree Cement era in East Bengal, the Torch Bearers have once again started to rebuild for the upcoming season. The Red & Golds are determined to revamp their lost glory and Ivan’s transfer is a significant boost.
A source keeping a development confirmed Football Monk, “Ivan has signed in a two-year deal with the East Bengal on a free transfer which will keep him at the club till 2024.”
Player Profile
Born in Madrid, Ivan Gonzalez joined Real Madrid‘s youth setup in 2002 at the age of 12 and later went on to make his debut with their C team in Spanish Tercera Division. The Spanish defender later plied his trade with Deportivo B, UB Conquense, Cultural Leonesa and racing Ferrol.
Ivan joined FC Goa ahead of the 2020-21 season and was a pivotal part of the Juan Ferrando led side. Ivan made 19 appearances in Goa’s Semi-Finals run, netting two goals and assisting one. The Spanish defender then represented FC Goa in the AFC Champions League and played an instrumental role in Goa’s third-place finish. However the next year, Goa struggled for the most part of the season and failed to make the playoffs.
Transfer mantra
With the aim to rebuild their squad, the East Bengal management have started talks with multiple players and are on the course to build a strong team ahead of the next season. Known for his technical ability and leadership, Ivan Gonzalez has been one of the best defenders of ISL in the previous two seasons. His signing will definitely strengthen the East Bengal defense and will give them much wanted stability in back.