Central Coast Mariners captain Alex Wilkinson edges closer to Korean move with Jeonbuk

Jul 12, 2012 4:02:00 AM

The long-serving Mariners defender has been granted permission to meet with the K-League champions, though a transfer fee for the 27-year-old is yet to be agreed

Central Coast Mariners captain Alex Wilkinson is set for a move abroad after receiving permission to meet with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.

The Mariners said while no transfer deal has been reached, the central defender is free to discuss personal terms with the K-League champions.

"Central Coast Mariners have late this afternoon granted captain Alex Wilkinson permission to fly to Korea Republic at the request of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors for a period of seven days," the club said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors have expressed an interest in acquiring Wilkinson's services, and the Mariners are committed to allowing the popular, long-serving defender the opportunity to discuss personal terms and decide whether a move to the K-League may be of interest to him and his family."

Wilkinson, who was one of Central Coast's inaugural signings in 2005, spent four months on loan at Chinese Super League side Jiangsu Sainty before returning to lead the Mariners to the A-League premiership last season.

Meanwhile, Central Coast utility Brad Porter has called time on his playing career at the age of 25.

Porter, who made 90 appearances over six years at the Mariners, has been sidelined for nearly two years with a serious knee injury.

Follow Goal.com Asia on and for the latest in Asian footballing news, features, and analysis

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!