Persija Jakarta Adds Serbian Defender Pankov for 2026 Season

Persija Jakarta announced the signing of 30‑year‑old Serbian centre‑back Radovan Pankov on a two‑year contract after his release from Legia Warszawa. The club highlighted his European experience and expects him to strengthen the defensive line.

South Korean coach Shin Tae‑yong, appointed earlier this year, led the team’s first pre‑season training on 14 July 2026 at the Persija Training Ground in Depok. The session focused on building players’ physical condition and integrating seven new recruits, including Pankov, Denis Kolinger, Kyohei Yoshino, Pratama Arhan, Victor Dethan, Aqil Savik and others. Shin said, “We will first build the players’ fitness before moving to tactical work.”

The training attracted hundreds of supporters who gathered outside the facility, chanting the coach’s name and awaiting a glimpse of the squad. Additional transfer talk surfaced as goalkeeper Nadeo Argawinata of Borneo FC was photographed touring with Persija players, sparking rumors of a possible move. Meanwhile, former Persib goalkeeper Aqil Savik confirmed his switch to Persija, citing the club’s vision and Shin’s leadership as key factors.

Overall, Persija’s pre‑season activities aim to prepare the team for the upcoming Super League season, which starts in September 2026, while the club continues to expand its roster with both domestic and foreign talent.