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Kolkata: It was a Golden handshake for Do Dong Hyun as he bid adieu to East Bengal club after a mid-way compromise and financial settlement. It put the curtains after days of drama between the Korean footballer and the club officials. Dong had a contract for 3 years with East Bengal, which got reduced to one year till May next year. But a string of poor performances in recent times forced the club to terminate his contract mid-way into the season.

According to club officials, Coach Trevor James also didn’t want Dong to be registered for forthcoming I League.

An emotional Dong when asked about his disappointment of not getting an opportunity to play in the I League said, "As you know the life of a footballer is like this, if you are not required by your club you have to leave, so am leaving".

Regarding his future plans Dong said, "I have not decided anything as yet, now i will return to Korea my home first. I have not decided yet whether i will play in I-League or Korean League".

He also acknowledged that several Indian clubs like DSK Shivajians, FC Bardez are in talks with him but nothing has been finalized as yet.

When asked about the main reason for his early exit, Dong said, "The coach don't want me in the team but I don't know the reason why? If you are not wanted in the team, then it can't be helped and you have to leave.”

Someone from the media asked whether he will make a comeback if the club officials recall him, the 22 year old midfielder said, “I am a professional footballer. If I get an offer I will definitely think about it” Both Dong and EB officials have been negotiating with each other to amicably settle the issue. According to club sources, Dong demanded Rs 1 crore to leave the club. But it was later agreed upon that the club will pay him Rs 30 lakhs as a final settlement.  Neither Dong nor East Bengal, both didn't want to disclose the exact terms and conditions.

Dong, who celebrates his 23^rd birthday on November 19 stated his memorable match for the club was the first Kolkata League derby in which he scored two goals from free-kick.

"Scoring 2 goals against Mohun Bagaan will always be special for me as it was my first derby," said Dong.

According to top club official Debabrata ,"The coach didn't like him and we have to follow the instruction of the coach, we have amicably settled the matter and there is no further dispute".

Meanwhile, the club is in talks with Barisic. The Australian who had earlier plied his trade with the Red and Gold jersey in 2013-14 season did not have an impressive stint. East Bengal coach Trevor James Morgan is in talks with Barisic along with a few others.