Official: Ex-Adelaide striker Van Dijk seals Persib move

13/02/2013 11:55:00 AM

After his Indonesian citizenship went through, former Adelaide United man Sergio van Dijk was finally able to join Persib Bandung

By PADDY HIGGS

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Sergio van Dijk's protracted move to Persib Bandung has finally been sealed, with the former Adelaide United forward signing a contract just hours after being sworn in as an Indonesia citizen.

Van Dijk's switch to Persib had been delayed due to a full complement of foreign players at the Indonesia Super League club, with the striker eligible for citizenship but having yet to complete the process when he was released by Adelaide on January 17.

But with the Dutch-born 30-year-old now possessing an Indonesian passport, the move has gone through.

"I am pleased to join Persib, Indonesia's biggest clubs with great players plus the overwhelming support from the best supporters, Bobotoh," the 2010-11 A-League golden boot winner said.

"I came here to help Persib to win the title."

Van Dijk will wear the No.10 shirt at Persib, with his favoured No.9 already taken by Airlangga Sutjipto.

He said he had "no problem" with his fitness, having only left the Reds in January.

The unrest for Indonesian football shows little signs of abating, with efforts to merge the Fifa-recognised Indonesian Premier League and independent ISL into one top flight hitting several hurdles.

Van Dijk is now eligible for the Indonesia national team, but cannot be considered while his club plays in the rebel ISL.

"If it was possible to get a call-up, I'm always willing... If everything was OK, hopefully I can play with them," he said.

- With Goal.com Indonesia