Belgian outfit have announced the signing of Ismael Kandouss ahead of the new season.

The 25-year-old Morocco international has signed a contract until 2027 according to the club’s official website and arrives from Division A club Union SG.

“KAA Gent is proud to announce the arrival of Ismael Kandouss. The Moroccan international comes over from Union SG and signed a contract with our club until 2027,” read part of the statement, adding: “The 25-year-old central defender took his first professional steps at the French side Dunkerque in 2016. Three years later, he made the switch to Union, which then played in the Belgian second division. His defensive qualities played a crucial role in promotion to the first division two years later.”

Gent manager Hein Vanhaezebrouck was elated to sign the player: “With Ismael, we get a player who was a member of the best team of the past two seasons,” he said, adding: “Twice he failed to win the title and now he comes to Ghent. Kandouss is a very solid defender: no-nonsense and rock-solid. Players, staff, and supporters will always be able to count on him.”

Kandouss almost became national champion twice with Union and was also part of the team that made it to the quarter-finals of the Europa League. This year he was called up for the first time for the Moroccan national team during an exhibition game against Cape Verde.

In total, Kandouss, who will wear jersey number five, played 145 matches for Union and scored five goals.