East Bengal is exploring every possibility in the forthcoming transfer window in an attempt to bolster their team and return stronger for the next season after an unsuccessful campaign. As they seek defensive reinforcements, the red and gold brigade has shown an early interest in Hyderabad FC’s Alex Saji, we can exclusively reveal.
Alex Saji has consistently been one of the league’s finest Indian defenders in recent years. He has often been linked to both of the Kolkata giants in the past. This time, East Bengal FC have expressed a strong interest in the player. A source close to the development added, “East Bengal have shown initial interest in Alex Saji. However, a substantial transfer fee will be required for the deal to go through.”
Defence has been a key worry for Oscar Bruzon since he took over the team, with only seven clean sheets in 25 games. Anwar has not been at his best, and neither has Hijazi, while Yuste has announced his retirement. According to sources, the club might release Lalchungunga if they obtain a significant transfer fee for the 24-year-old centre-back.
A player of Alex’s calibre joining the team might help them move up the table and significantly strengthen the defence. And, with Thangboi Singto in charge of the football operations at the club, it’s impossible to rule out a move for one of his former players.
Hyderabad’s stance:
Hyderabad will remain cool about the matter. They were successful last summer in snubbing out rival teams’ interest and signing Alex to a three-year contract that would keep him with the team until 2027. They will undoubtedly seek a hefty transfer fee and would do anything to hold onto their captain for the new project as they prepare for a fresh start in Delhi.
East Bengal’s Transfer window so far:
East Bengal finished ninth in the table with 28 points, eight behind Mumbai City FC in sixth position. They were knocked out in the quarter finals of the Durand Cup and the first round of the Super Cup. To make things right, they are highly involved in the transfer window. Edmund has joined the club for a large amount, and the team is also interested in Bipin Singh. Abhishek Singh and Lamgoulen Gou Hangshing are defensive options they are being linked to.
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