K League 1 giants Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors are reportedly targeting Johor Darul Ta’zim star Arif Aiman as part of head coach Gus Poyet’s squad rebuild.
Following Arif’s standout performances in the AFC Champions League Elite, the 23-year-old winger has reportedly caught the eye of Jeonbuk, who have already added the likes of former FCSB striker Andrea Compagno and former Shonan Bellmare goalkeeper Song Bum-keun into the squad.
Speculation intensified after Markaj News reported on X that the nine-time K League 1 champions are closely monitoring Arif’s progress.
This isn’t the first time the Malaysian star has been linked with an overseas move. Previously, he was rumored to have received a lucrative offer from an Iranian club. Additionally, Rangers Journal, a supporter-run platform for Scottish club Glasgow Rangers, has recognized his talent, even suggesting that the club should consider signing him.
Despite Jeonbuk’s reported interest, the key question remains—will the reigning Liga Super Malaysia MVP make the move?
A transfer seems unlikely at this stage, especially given JDT’s dominance in Asian football, with the club arguably surpassing Jeonbuk in terms of recent success.
While Jeonbuk previously won the AFC Champions League in 2006 and 2016, they have struggled for consistency in recent seasons, finishing 10th in the K League 1 last year and avoiding relegation after winning the relegation play-offs.
Moreover, in an interview with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), Arif hinted at a long-term commitment to JDT, emphasizing his desire to continue growing with the club.
“My long-term goal is to keep improving as a player and continue playing at the highest level with JDT. I have to keep working hard to be where I am today, he said, as quoted from Berita Harian, “I still have room to grow, so I will keep pushing myself and focusing on my goals.”
Arif has been instrumental in JDT’s ACLE campaign, playing a key role in their progression to the round of 16. With five goals so far, he is just one behind Al Nassr star Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently sits second in the tournament’s scoring charts.