Nsungusi Effiong: Nigeria forward joins East Bengal FC on free transfer from Punjab FC

Nigeria striker Nsungusi Effiong has joined East Bengal FC on a free transfer from Indian Super League rivals Punjab FC. The 26-year-old centre-forward moves within the ISL after his contract with Punjab came to an end.

Effiong’s arrival strengthens East Bengal’s attacking options ahead of the new campaign, with the club securing a player who is already familiar with Indian top-flight football. The deal is a permanent move, with no transfer fee paid between the clubs.

The Lagos-born forward, whose market value is listed at around €325,000, made his name in the Indian Super League with Punjab FC, where he operated primarily as a central striker. His performances there have earned him a step across to one of Kolkata’s traditional powerhouses as East Bengal continue to reshape their squad.

Effiong’s switch also represents a notable piece of intra-league business, as Punjab lose a key attacking figure to a direct competitor. East Bengal, meanwhile, gain a physically robust focal point in the final third as they look to improve their output in front of goal.

The transfer was finalised on 17 July 2026, confirming Effiong as an East Bengal FC player on a free transfer from Punjab FC.