Chennaiyin FC has signed the services of left-back defender Vignesh Dakshinamurthy, the club announced on Independence day. The defender has signed a four-year deal with the Marina Machans, which will keep him at the club until the end of 2028.

Vignesh also has the experience of playing in the mid-field. He becomes the club’s 12th signing of the summer, joining the likes of Mandar Rao Desai and PC Laldinpuia.

Welcoming Vignesh into the club, head coach Owen Coyle said: “Delighted to sign another talented young Indian player who has already shown fantastic ability in the ISL, we faced a lot of competition to sign him from other clubs. Vignesh is a great addition to our squad and we look forward to working with him.”

Vignesh began his career with Bengaluru’s Ozone FC and made his senior team debut at 17. 

Meanwhile, Vignesh played for Mumbai City FC and featured in more than 60 matches for the Islanders, including four AFC Champions League games.

Ecstatic upon joining the two-time ISL champions, Vignesh said: “Feels like being at home. Really happy and proud to represent the city and Chennaiyin FC. I’m aware of the rich culture of the city and the club so I’ll always give my best and be a part of the club’s success.”

Vignesh played for Mumbai City FC for five seasons and then moved to Hyderabad FC for the 2023-24 season.

Meanwhile, Chennaiyin FC didn’t have a great run in th Durand Cup as they are currently placed in third place in Group D and have been knocked out of the playoffs race.