Punjab FC Add Experience and Depth with Double Signing of Gurkirat Singh and Nishchal Chandan

Punjab FC have continued their preparations for the 2026-27 Indian Super League (ISL) season by announcing the signing of forward Gurkirat Singh and defender Nishchal Chandan on two-year contracts. 

Both players will remain with the Shers until May 31, 2028, as the club looks to strengthen key areas of the squad ahead of another challenging campaign in India's top-flight football competition.

The double signing reflects Punjab FC's intent to build a balanced squad capable of competing consistently in the ISL. While Gurkirat brings pace and attacking versatility to the frontline, Nishchal adds defensive solidity and familiarity with the club's footballing philosophy, having previously represented Punjab FC during the early stages of his senior career.

The additions underline the club's strategy of investing in proven domestic talent while continuing to build a competitive core for the future.

The arrival of Gurkirat Singh gives Punjab FC another dynamic option in attack. Known for his speed, intelligent movement and ability to operate across the forward line, the Chandigarh-born footballer has accumulated valuable experience across both the Indian Super League and the AFC Champions League despite still being in the early stages of his career.

A graduate of the prestigious AIFF Elite Academy, Gurkirat first came into prominence with Indian Arrows, where he represented the developmental side in the I-League between 2018 and 2021. During that period, he made 18 appearances, scoring once while gaining valuable experience against senior opposition. His performances earned him a move to Mumbai City FC, where he spent three seasons between 2021 and 2024.

Although competition for places limited his opportunities, Gurkirat featured 28 times across domestic and continental competitions, scoring once while being part of one of India's strongest club setups. His exposure to the AFC Champions League also provided experience against some of Asia's leading clubs.

Seeking regular first-team football, the forward joined Chennaiyin FC ahead of the 2024-25 season. Across two campaigns with the Marina Machans, he made 15 appearances, further developing his game in one of the country's most competitive leagues.

Now, Gurkirat begins a new chapter with Punjab FC, where he is expected to play a more prominent role in the club's attacking plans.

Speaking after completing the move, Gurkirat expressed his excitement about joining the Mohali-based club and becoming part of its long-term vision. He highlighted the club's steady progress since earning promotion to the ISL and said he was looking forward to contributing to its continued growth. The forward also spoke about his eagerness to perform for the supporters and help the team achieve its ambitions over the next two seasons.

For Punjab FC, his arrival adds greater flexibility in the final third. Capable of operating as a winger or central striker, Gurkirat offers the coaching staff multiple tactical options while bringing pace and directness to the attack.

Punjab FC's second signing sees Nishchal Chandan return to familiar surroundings. The central defender began his footballing journey at Minerva Academy, where he was part of the team that won the U-18 I-League North Zone Championship before progressing into senior football. His first senior appearance came with Punjab FC during the 2020-21 I-League Second Division, making the latest move something of a homecoming.

Since then, Nishchal has steadily built an impressive résumé across Indian football. He joined Sudeva Delhi FC, where he not only made his I-League debut but also captained the side, demonstrating leadership qualities early in his career. A move to Churchill Brothers followed, with Nishchal becoming a regular in defence. During his time in Goa, he made 19 appearances and contributed a goal while establishing himself as one of the league's dependable centre-backs.

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Most recently, he represented Inter Kashi, featuring in nine matches during the 2025-26 season before securing his return to Punjab FC.

Nishchal's arrival provides Punjab FC with additional strength at the back. Recognised for his aerial ability, physical presence and positional awareness, the Chandigarh-born defender is expected to compete for a regular place in central defence while adding valuable depth across the season.

His familiarity with the club's environment should also ease the transition into the squad. Speaking after signing his contract, Nishchal described Punjab FC as a club with a clear vision and said he was proud to return. He expressed his commitment to working hard during pre-season, building a connection with the supporters and helping the team deliver clean sheets and victories in the coming campaigns.

Since establishing themselves in the Indian Super League, Punjab FC have consistently focused on developing a competitive squad built around talented Indian players. Rather than relying solely on marquee signings, the club has invested in footballers capable of contributing over multiple seasons while fitting into its long-term philosophy. The acquisitions of Gurkirat Singh and Nishchal Chandan align perfectly with that approach.

Both players are familiar with Indian football's demands, possess experience across multiple clubs and remain at stages of their careers where further development is expected. Their additions also improve competition for places within the squad, an important factor as Punjab FC prepare for another demanding ISL campaign.

With pre-season preparations underway, Punjab FC will now focus on integrating their new signings into the squad and building cohesion ahead of the new season. Gurkirat's pace and attacking versatility could provide a fresh dimension in the final third, while Nishchal's defensive qualities offer greater stability and depth at the back.

The two-year contracts also signal the club's confidence in both players as part of its medium-term plans.

As Punjab FC continue assembling their squad for the 2026-27 Indian Super League season, the arrivals of Gurkirat Singh and Nishchal Chandan represent more than routine transfer business. They reflect a clear commitment to strengthening key areas with experienced domestic talent capable of contributing immediately while growing alongside the club. With expectations continuing to rise in Mohali, these additions could play an important role in Punjab FC's ambitions of establishing themselves among the ISL's most competitive sides.