FA Šiauliai has announced the permanent transfer of Lithuanian center-back Kristupas Keršys. Additionally, the club has signed a contract for one more season with Šiauliai native Justas Petravičius and goalkeeper Lukas Paukštė.
Kristupas Keršys, who played on loan at Šiauliai last season from the Latvian Virslīga side FK Metta, made ten league appearances. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to a season-ending injury that required surgery. Despite this setback, the club has secured a permanent deal for the 21-year-old player. Kristupas is a former academy product of FK Metta and has also trained with youth academies in Slovakia at Slovan Bratislava and in Germany at Werder Bremen.
Justas Petravičius, a 29-year-old midfielder, will continue to represent Šiauliai for his ninth season. Last season, he made 16 appearances in the A Lyga.
Lukas Paukštė, the 26-year-old goalkeeper who has been with the club since 2022, will also remain with Šiauliai. Last season, Lukas started as a backup goalkeeper but earned the role of the number-one keeper, making 17 appearances and allowing 27 goals. Over his career with Šiauliai, Lukas has made 75 appearances. Previously, Paukštė has represented in Lithuania Atlantas, Utenis, Riteriai, and Jonava.
The Šiauliai side, now managed by former Latvian National Team manager Dainis Kazakevičs, will kick off their pre-season friendly schedule with a match against FK Banga Gargždai tomorrow in Liepāja.