Latvian international centre-back Daniels Balodis is set to leave Scotland after a year to join Slovakia’s oldest football club, FC Tatran Prešov, according to reports from the Scottish media.
The 27-year-old defender, who joined St. Johnstone in January, made an immediate impact in the Scottish Premiership with 16 appearances and two goals — including a memorable winner against Glasgow Celtic. Despite his contributions, St. Johnstone were relegated at the end of the season, triggering a clause in Balodis’ contract that allowed him to become a free agent if the club dropped out of the top tier.
According to Record Sport, Balodis had an offer to remain in Scotland with St Mirren, but he ultimately chose a new challenge in Slovakia. According to our sources the Latvian also had interest from clubs in other European top divisions outside of Slovakia, though he opted for the historic Tatran Prešov.
Balodis brings a wealth of experience from his home country, having played six professional seasons in the Latvian Virslīga with stints at BFC Daugavpils, FK Jelgava, Valmiera FC, and FC RFS. He lifted the league title twice — once with Valmiera and once with RFS — before making the move abroad.
FC Tatran Prešov, founded in 1898, holds the distinction of being the oldest football club in Slovakia. The team will return to the Slovak top flight this season after a seven-year absence.
