KABARMALANG.COM – Entering the end of December 2025, rumors of the move of the Indonesian National Team’s main goalkeeper, Maarten Paes to Persib Bandung, are getting louder.
Even though it has become a hot topic of conversation among Bobotoh, until now the status of the transfer is still just a strong rumor and there has been no official announcement from the club management.
The following are the latest facts regarding Maarten Paes’ transfer situation:
1. Negotiation and Rumor Agreement Stage
Several internal reports state that Persib Bandung is in the final negotiation stage.
Speculation is circulating that there is an initial agreement to bring in the FC Dallas goalkeeper in the January 2026 transfer window in order to strengthen Maung Bandung’s defense line.
2. Contract Status at FC Dallas
The main obstacle in this transfer is the duration of the contract. Legally, Maarten Paes is still under contract with MLS club, FC Dallas, until December 31, 2026.
If Persib wants to bring him in in the near future, there are two possible schemes to take:
Permanent Transfer: Redeem the remaining contract (transfer fee).
Loan Scheme: Borrowing the goalkeeper for a certain duration.
3. Persib Bandung Management Response
Deputy CEO of PT PBB, Adhitia Putra Herawan, gave a positive signal but remained cautious.
Even though Paes’ name was mentioned in plans for the second round of the transfer market, management emphasized that there were no documents yet “done deal“ which is officially signed.
4. New Ammunition for AFC Champions League 2
Persib’s interest in world-class players such as Maarten Paes and Joey Pelupessy is not without reason.
Persib needs a competitive squad to compete in the last 16 of the AFC Champions League 2, where the level of competition is much higher than the domestic league.
