Adelaide United have announced a big shake up of their squad for the remainder of the season headlined by the signing of experienced South Korean midfielder Kim Jae-sung.
Kim will be eligible to play in both the Reds’ upcoming AFC Champions League campaign as well as the remainder of the Hyundai A-League. Â
The 33-year-old has accumulated over 380 appearances in his homeland, most notably with K League Classic heavyweights Pohang Steelers, winning the coveted Asian Champions League in 2009.
His stellar performances earned him a call-up to the South Korean National Team, where he featured in three of the country’s four games at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Kim, who scored two goals in 16 international caps, is known for his versatility, and can operate anywhere in midfield.
He is also renowned for his technical ability, excellent vision, and endurance to cover a lot of ground across the park.
In addition to his spell with Pohang, Kim has represented Jeju United – one of Adelaide’s Group H opponents.
Adelaide United Head Coach, Guillermo Amor, said: “We are very happy to sign Kim for the rest of the season.Â
“He is a player with a lot of experience and has played at a very high level in his entire career.Â
“Having him available for our Asian Champions League season as well is very important and he will help us in this competition for sure.”Â
Adelaide United also wishes to advise it has completed the signing of Eli Babalj for the remainder of the Hyundai A-League 2016/17 season and 2017 AFC Champions League.
Eli Babalj, 24, returns to Adelaide United having been loaned to the club for the Hyundai A-League 2015/16 season by former club, AZ Alkmaar.Â
Babalj’s last campaign was unfortunately cut short in Round 16 when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) against Brisbane Roar.Â
Meanwhile, Baba Diawara will join the Reds subject to the final approval of a working visa and is expected to join his new teammates by the end of the week.Â
The club can also officially confirm the departure of forward, Henrique, after both parties agreed to terminate his contract pending a move abroad.Â
The Brazilian-born Australian joined the Reds ahead of the Hyundai A-League 2016/17 season and scored three goals in 13 appearances.