KUALA LUMPUR: Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) have confirmed one of the worst kept transfer secrets of this post-season in announcing the signing of defender Adam Nor Azlin from Selangor.
JDT sports director Martin Prest said the versatile Adam, who recently earned his first international cap for Malaysia in an Asian Cup qualifier against North Korea, will become a valuable addition to the club's squad.
"Johor Darul Ta’zim FC is proud to welcome our new young player Adam Nor Azlin," said Prest in a statement on the Johor Southern Tigers Facebook page on Saturday.
"We are excited to have him here with us. He is a part of our long-term plan. He understands our project, possesses a strong character, determined to do well, grow as a player and winning titles.
"We are happy to have Adam to be a part of our huge project."
Adam, 21, becomes JDT's first official signing since the end of the 2017 season when the club won the Malaysia Cup title to go with their fourth consecutive Super League crown.
Several other players have been linked with JDT, including Adam's centre-back partner in Malaysia's Sea Games squad, Adib Zainuddin of FAM Cup side Felcra.
However, Adam will have his work cut out in a bid to get regular playing time for JDT next season.
Besides Brazilian Marcos Antonio Santos, JDT can also call upon national team players Aidil Zafuan Radzak, Fadhli Shas and Junior Eldstal to play in central defence while Dominic Tan is another option.
Adam was a regular in Selangor coach P. Maniam's three-man backline in the just-concluded season but is equally adept in playing as a midfielder and forward when the situation calls for it.