Subway Socceroos defender Thomas Deng will leave Japanese side Albirex Niigata at the end of the 2024 J1 League season.
Albirex Niigata confirmed the Isuzu UTE A-League graduate will depart on a free transfer after opting not to re-sign the former Melbourne Victory centre-back.
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An A-Leagues champion with Victory, Deng spent three years at Albirex Niigata, where the 27-year-old helped the club get promoted from the J2 League in 2023.
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With two rounds remaining in Japan’s top flight, Deng has amassed 63 league appearances for Albirex Niigata, including 29 this term, and 69 across all competitions.
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“Tommy always has a smile on his face and is affectionate towards everyone,” said the club. “We will never forget his dedicated play and his courage in always working hard. Thank you Tommy!”
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It comes after fellow Australian Peter Cklamovski confirmed he is standing down as head coach of FC Tokyo in the J1 League, while legendary goalkeeper and Nagoya Grampus goalkeeper Mitch Langerak is preparing to return to Victory in January.
Former Newcastle Jets head coach Arthur Papas, meanwhile, is reportedly poised to take charge of Cerezo Osaka.
Deng added: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the Albi supporters for the wonderful three years I have spent with you all.
“It has been three years of many ups and downs, but I have always overcome the difficult times with you all. I am so grateful for the warm welcome and acceptance you have given me.
“To my teammates and staff, thanks to you all, I have been able to find my love for football again.
“Every training session and game was always filled with the joy of playing. Thank you so much. I wish you all the best for the next season and the future. Thank you very much.”
