SHAH ALAM - Malaysian national striker Luqman Hakim Shamsudin is set to sign a one-year loan deal with a Japanese League 3 club.
The deal, which will commence from January to December 2024, has been confirmed by a reliable source close to the negotiations.
It was also revealed that while there was interest from Japanese League 2 clubs, Luqman strategically chose League 3, foreseeing it as an opportunity for a fresh start and increased playing time.
The move is expected to provide the young player with valuable experience and exposure to a different style of play.
To facilitate the move, Luqman will receive financial support from KV Kortrijk, his current club, which will cover a portion of his wages during the loan period.
The timing of the move aligns with the commencement of the Japanese League 2 season in February.
The Kelantan-born player is expected to join his new team at the end of January, just in time for pre-season preparations.
Luqman’s skills have not gone unnoticed on the local and international stage.
Several Malaysian clubs such as Selangor, Perak, Kedah and Negeri Sembilan were rumoured to have expressed interest in securing the 22-year-old.
However, beyond Malaysia, Luqman has also attracted inquiries from the Thai League 1 and the Philippines League.
Luqman was previously on loan for one season at an Icelandic football club UMF Njardvik last year.
His contract with KV Kortrijk is due to end June 2025.