PETALING JAYA: The transfer deadline on Sunday may have sparked headlines across Europe and South America, but there was also some late drama as Malaysia’s Super League clubs moved swiftly to reinforce their squads ahead of the next phase of the season.
Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) made two eye-catching signings from Spain, bringing in rightback Raul Parra and midfielder Ager Aketxe.
Parra, 25, joins from Portuguese side Estoril.
Since making his professional debut in 2018, the defender has had spells with Spanish clubs including La Almunia, Guijuelo, Real Mallorca, Cadiz, Mirandes and Eldense.
He expressed his excitement on social media after sealing the move.
“A new chapter begins ... I’m very excited to start this adventure in JDT. A great opportunity to grow and enjoy carrying the number that is marked in my heart as you know,” wrote Parra.
Aketxe, 31, arrives with a wealth of experience and a reputation as a creative playmaker, equally comfortable dictating play from deep or operating behind the forwards.
A former Spain Under-20 international, he was signed from Real Zaragoza but is best remembered for his six-year stint with Athletic Bilbao in La Liga from 2012 to 2018.
His career has also taken him to Cadiz, Deportivo, Almeria, Eibar and Major League Soccer side Toronto FC.
Elsewhere, Penang looked closer to home for reinforcements, opting for players familiar with the Malaysian game. The Panthers added Filipino winger OJ Porteria and Nigerian centreback Faith Obilor.
Porteria, 31, who previously turned out for Kelantan United, arrives from Stallions Laguna in the Philippines and is expected to inject pace and width down the left flank.
Obilor, 34, signed from Police, is tasked with shoring up a defence that has conceded seven goals in their opening four matches.
Kelantan were also active on deadline day, recruiting Italian-Danish midfielder Sebastian Avanzini and Congolese striker Noel Mbo.
Avanzini, 30, is no stranger to Malaysian football, having previously represented Kuala Lumpur and Negri Sembilan. He brings both composure and experience to the Warriors’ midfield.
Mbo, 26, meanwhile, joins from Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and is expected to form a partnership in attack with Bahraini-Nigerian striker Ifedayo Olusegun.
Their neighbours Terengganu also dipped into the market, though the club have yet to confirm the deal.
It is learnt that Police captain and defensive midfielder Kyaw Min Oo managed to seal a deal with Terengganu before 11.50pm on Sunday.
Though the club earlier said they were looking to only have six foreigners, they felt the need to bring some solidity and stability in the middle of the park and the 29-year-old Min Oo fits the bill.
