XtraTime Web Desk: Two-time Indian Super League (ISL) champions ATK have signed 29-year-old centre-back John Johnson from Bengaluru FC.
John Johnson, who has been with the Blues ever since the club’s inception in 2013, has signed a two-year deal at ATK. He will earn 250,000 USD in the first year and 275,000 USD in his second year after he signs from Bengaluru.
He is currently on a $211,253 salary and will see out his current contract with the former I-League champions which will end in May 2018.
Johnson was an integral part of BFC winning two I-Leagues and two Federation cups with them. He was a pillar at the back for the Blues.
It must be noted that he was earlier linked with the Kolkata franchise last summer but he remained committed to the JSW-owned club.
After a disappointing season, ATK were desperate to sign defensive reinforcements and offered the Englishman a lucrative contract which was the primary reason for him to switch clubs.
The English defender has played 107 times for Bengaluru FC over five seasons in I-League, ISL and AFC Cup and has scored five goals along the way.
The tall and sturdy centre back was one of the main players for BFC earning several man of the match awards in the I-League when Bengaluru featured in the league.
Its good news for the Kolkata fans as Johnson will add solidity and stability to the ATK back four and his towering presence during set pieces is also an advantage.
After a horrid fourth season in ISL, its to be seen how John Johnson fits in at ATK and who benefits from it.