DPMM FC have agreed the signing of Latvian international Davis Ikaunieks for the remainder of the Singapore Premier League (SPL) 2024/2025 season.
The forward’s imminent arrival from FC Siaulai will represent a major boost for the Gegar Gegar men, who are in search of attacking threat up front.
The Brunei-based outfit, who have made no secret of their search for a marksman, initially expressed their interest in the player nine days ago before confirming that he will be joining the club.
It marks the Latvian’s first spell in Asia having played in various leagues across Europe including Czech Republic, Latvia and Lithuania.
He is scheduled to arrive in the Sultanate on January 4 and is expected to feature in their first fixture of the new year against Lion City Sailors at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on January 13.
The Kuldiga native will hope to replicate his prolific form having scored 18 goals in the A Lyga- the top tier of Lithuanian football- putting him second in the scoring charts behind Liviu Antal of FK Zalgiris Vilnius.
His greatest achievement came in 2015 when he lifted the Latvian Higher League- the top tier of Latvian football- title with FK Liepaja, before winning the Latvian Football Cup with FK RFS four years later.
Known as the Latvian Diamond, the 30-year old claimed the most coveted individual honour in his homeland after being named Latvian Footballer of the Year in 2018.
At international level, Ikaunieks made his debut in 2016 and went on to make 43 appearances for his country, scoring six goals.
DPMM FC have been on the lookout in the transfer market since releasing Mexican striker Julio Cruz last October.
His sudden departure left Miguel Oliveira and Gabriel Gama as the remaining foreign imports leading the line in attack.
The sole Brunei professional club have also strengthened their defence following the arrival of Iceland international Damir Muminovic from Breidablik FC.
The Serbian-born defender will fill the void vacated by Patrick Flottmann, who has been limited to just two appearances this season after suffering a long-term injury.
The two-time Singapore league winners are currently sixth, but have a chance to narrow the gap within two points off fifth-placed Balestier Khalsa FC with a win in their next game. – Fadhil Yunus
