PETALING JAYA: Penang are wasting no time in bolstering their ranks ahead of the new Super League season, announcing a string of high-profile signings that signal their intent to climb the table in 2025.

Leading the charge is seasoned Japanese-Brazilian attacker Bruno Suzuki, midfield workhorse Firdaus Saiyadi, and proven Ivorian goal-getter Tchetche Kipre – names that have already stirred excitement among the Panthers’ faithful.

The club kicked off a social media blitz this week, unveiling both new arrivals and retained players as they gear up for a fresh campaign.

While the departure of long-serving Brazilian centreback Rafael Vitor, who had been with Penang since 2020, leaves a significant void in defence, the buzz surrounding the new recruits has revived optimism among fans.

Suzuki, 35, reunites with head coach Wan Rohaimi Wan Ismail, with whom he enjoyed a productive run at Police in 2021.

The forward credits Rohaimi’s belief in his abilities as the driving force behind the move.

“Last season, when Police played Penang, Rohaimi came to me and said, ‘Join me next season’. I told him to send the contract and he did,” said Suzuki.

“I played as a second striker under him and we clicked, and even though I was mostly setting up chances, I still managed to score seven goals.”

Suzuki sees this switch as a timely step up in his career, and expressed gratitude to his former club for laying the foundation.

“I’m not getting any younger, so moving to Penang is the right progression for me – professionally and personally. The timing was perfect, and of course, the offer was better,” he said.

“I owe a lot to Police. They gave me a platform to showcase my ability, and because of them, I stayed relevant in the market.”

The veteran forward had two separate stints with Police, first in 2021 and then returning in 2023 from Bangkok FC, continuing until mid-2025.

In addition to Suzuki, Kipre and Firdaus, Penang have also snapped up Amirul Hisyam Awang Kechik, Chia Ruo Han, centreback Akmal Zahir, and fullback Ahmad Irfan Noor.

Rumours are swirling that the Panthers may hire Bosnian winger Danilo Sipovac and Brazilian playmaker Thiago Fernandes.

The Malaysian transfer window officially opens on Monday, but Penang’s proactive approach shows they are serious about turning things around after last season’s 10th-place finish.

With experience, flair, and tactical reinforcements on the way, the islanders could well be the dark horses to watch in the upcoming campaign.