Amid interest in Punjab FC’s stars from Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC, Khaimingthang Lhungdim commits his future to the Shers with a three-year extension.

Kolkata, June 18: As the new season is about to begin and all the clubs are preparing their squads, Punjab FC have extended Khaimingthang Lhungdim’s contract with a three-year deal. As the transfer merry-go-round is in full swing, the Shers find themselves in a tidy situation, with several of their players, including the head coach, being monitored by Indian giants Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC.

Since their I-League days, Punjab FC have not only participated in competitions but have also left a lasting impact on player development, producing several Indian talents and quality foreign players for the Indian football landscape.

With the name of head coach Panagiotis Dilmperis being linked to both Mohun Bagan SG and East Bengal FC, the situation between the age-old rivals has become intriguing. Over the last few days, the matter has grabbed everyone’s attention. While Panagiotis was close to joining Mohun Bagan SG, a late approach from East Bengal FC has delayed any confirmation and added further excitement to the speculation. Meanwhile, defender Samir Zeljkovic has already joined Mohun Bagan SG after delivering impactful performances for the Shers in the previous ISL season.

Attacking midfielder Dani Ramirez is also set to join East Bengal FC. The Spaniard, who scored four goals and two assists while making full appearances throughout the season for Punjab FC, attracted the attention of several clubs with his performances in the last ISL campaign.

Amidst all this uncertainty, Punjab FC have announced a three-year contract extension for Khaimingthang Lhungdim. The 26-year-old the Sher’s very own defender played a crucial role for the Shers last season. Although capable of operating as a left-back, he was primarily deployed as a centre-back.

Lhungdim joined Punjab FC from NEROCA FC ahead of the 2022-23 season, and since then he has made 85 appearances across all competitions for the Shers while also contributing in attack. During the 2025-26 ISL season, he made 12 appearances, starting every match he featured in and providing one assist.

Lhungdim’s words reflected the bond he has built with the club over the years. Having witnessed Punjab FC’s rise from the I-League to the Indian Super League, the defender has been one of the familiar faces throughout the journey. At a time when several key figures are being linked away from the club, his decision to commit his future to the Shers offers a sense of stability. With experience, leadership and versatility at the back, Punjab FC will hope that Lhungdim continues to play an important role as they prepare for another challenging season.

Calling Punjab FC his home, Lhungdim said some of the best moments of his life came with the club. The defender also believes there is much more to achieve with the Shers, which is why he chose to extend his stay. And the best days of the club’s ahead.

Khaimingthang Lhungdim said to the club media after extending his contract, “I just want to say that this feels like home. I have grown so much as a player and as a person during my four years here at Punjab FC.

Some of the best moments of my life have come at this Club, winning the I-League and making my ISL debut. I feel immense pride every time I wear this shirt. And still, I feel there is so much more to be done. Our best days lie ahead of us. That’s why I’m staying.”