ISL: East Bengal, ATK Mohun Bagan fight it out for Sandesh Jhingan

East Bengal FC’s addition to the Indian Super League (ISL) is only a matter of time and in order to build a strong enough team, capable of challenging the big teams in the league, the Red and Golds have set their eyes on Sandesh Jhingan.

Having sold a majority hold of the club to Indian cement manufacturing company, Shree Cement, the Kolkata football giants are set to pick up the bid documents from Football Sports Development Ltd. (FSDL) within Monday or Tuesday. However, while on one hand, the formalities to enter ISL are being taken care of, on the other, preparations for the upcoming campaign are in full flow.

Jhingan, arguably the best Indian defender right now, is a free agent after parting ways with Kerala Blasters earlier in the summer. Coming off the back of a tough ACL injury which forced him to miss the entire season, the 27-year-old was looking to make a switch abroad. However, the impact of Covid-19, might see him end up staying in India for at least one more season.

https://twitter.com/KeralaBlasters/status/1263422249543106562

As soon as Jhingan’s departure from Kerala became apparent, clubs lined up to secure his services. ATKMB, Bengaluru FC, FC Goa, Mumbai City FC and Odisha FC all want him and have each offered whatever they can to lure him. But with East Bengal entering the race late, the scenario has changed.

It is understood that East Bengal want to make at least 3 more domestic signings and have shortlisted 5 names including Jhingan, Narayan Das, Anas Edathodika and Jeje Lalpekhlua but Jhingan is a priority. Reports suggest that the club have already made a massive offer, worth more than any other club at the moment.

Nonetheless, ATKMB and Mumbai City are equipped to match any offer. Ultimately, it all depends on Jhingan.