Hungarian defender signs for Pilgrims

Plymouth Argyle have bolstered their defensive options ahead of Sunday’s Sky Bet League One opener with the signing of Kornel Szucs for an undisclosed fee from Hungarian side Kecskemeti.

The 22-year-old, who can play centre-back, right-back and as right wing back, is Argyle’s sixth signing of the summer, joining Nathanael Ogbeta, Muhamed Tijani, Darko Gyabi, Ibrahim Cissoko and Victor Palsson.

Capped at Under-21 level by his country, Szucs initially came through the ranks at Diosgyor. After playing for the club’s second team in the nation’s third tier of football, he played in the division above during loan spells with Kazincbarcika, and notched 51 appearances for Diosgyor’s first team.

In the summer of 2023, Szucs signed for Kecskemeti, and played 28 times, scoring two goals, last season, as they finished sixth in the top division. He has also played three times for Hungary Under-21s.

“I am really pleased we have been able to bring Kornel on board,” said Argyle Head Coach Wayne Rooney. “He is a very talented young player, able to play in several defensive positions. As well as his versatility, he is very athletic, is comfortable on the ball, and is well suited to the way we want to play. I am looking forward to seeing him in action for us.”

The signing of Szucs comes just days after former defender Dan Scarr ended his three-year stint at Home Park by signing for League One outfit Wrexham.

Director of Football Neil Dewsnip added: “The acquisition of Kornel is further evidence of our recruitment process reaching far and wide to attract the best players we possibly can.

“Our team do an excellent job identifying players who we think will augment our current squad, and Kornel will do that. He is a good player now, and we think he has scope to be even better. I am delighted he has joined us.”

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