Bengaluru FC sign up North Korean Kim

Bengaluru FC announced on Wednesday the signings of strikers Kim Seng-Yong from North Korea, who will replace Australian Sean Rooney, and Manipur's Seiminlen Doungel.

The Blues had a successful second season where they finished winners of the Federation Cup, runners-up in the Hero I-League and made the last 16 of the AFC Cup.

Kim had turned out for Rangdajied United before he switched to Royal Wahingdoh last season where he played a key role in the club's third place finish. He will replace Rooney whose contract with the Blues has expired.

"I am extremely happy to have signed for Bengaluru FC. I consider myself lucky to have been given a chance to play for a club like this. They have done an amazing job on and off the pitch over the past two years.

"I am looking forward to playing under the guidance of Ashley Westwood and the rest of the staff, and I will do my best to contribute towards the team's success on all fronts," said Kim, who is on a one year deal with the club having the choice to extend it for another year.

Doungel, 21, who has signed a two-year deal, and had previously represented East Bengal and Shillong Lajong, said: "It makes me happy to say that I am part of Bengaluru FC. It's a club where I know I will improve as a player and I cannot wait to be a part of wonderful things the club does."

Bengaluru FC COO, Mustafa Ghouse said the duo had caught the coaching staff's attention for a while and that Blues were happy to have closed on their targets.

"Kim and Len are both very talented players and have been on our radar for some time now. We are certain the fans will be happy to see them in the BFC blue next season, just as we are.

"We would also like to thank Sean Rooney whose contribution to the club in our first two seasons has been immense and we wish him all the best for his future endeavours," said Ghouse.