East Bengal FC are rebuilding their squad for the upcoming season. Just a day after offering a contract extension to Keralite winger PV Vishnu, sources have now revealed that the club is in advanced talks with Mumbai City FC winger Bipin Singh. Efforts are on to get players from Punjab FC and even I-League side Shillong Lajong FC.
Earlier, RevSportz had reported that Bipin was East Bengal’s primary target in the upcoming transfer window. The Red-and-Gold brigade seems determined to secure the experienced winger’s services and is leaving no stone unturned to finalise the deal.
Kerala Blasters have also entered the race for Bipin, but according to sources, East Bengal are currently leading and are close to completing the signing.
Bipin is no stranger to Kolkata. He previously played for the now-defunct Atlético de Kolkata, where he caught attention by scoring a stunning free-kick. He then moved to Mumbai City FC, where he enjoyed the peak of his career, winning two ISL Shields and two ISL Cups.
Though he’s been a crucial player for Mumbai over the years, Bipin had a relatively quiet season recently, scoring only once in both the ISL and the Super Cup. A move to East Bengal could offer him an opportunity to revive his form in the City of Joy.
Punjab FC duo on wish list
Punjab FC wing-back Abhishek Singh has emerged as another top target for East Bengal. Sources indicate that negotiations are underway, although Punjab FC have demanded a significant transfer fee, as Abhishek has a year remaining on his contract. Whether East Bengal are ready to go all out for him remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, East Bengal have also shown interest in Nikhil Prabhu, the versatile midfielder who played a key role in Punjab FC’s campaign this season. However, Punjab FC are currently unwilling to part ways with him.
Shillong Lajong Midfielder also on radar
East Bengal are also in talks with Shillong Lajong FC’s midfielder Hardy Nongbri. Discussions are still in early stages, and nothing has been finalised yet.
Hardy has been a standout performer in the I-League this season, scoring two goals and providing five assists. The midfielder from Meghalaya first caught the attention of East Bengal’s management during the Durand Cup quarter-final, where he played a pivotal role in Shillong’s 2-1 win over the Kolkata giants.
Also Read: East Bengal Eyeing Wing-Back Reinforcements Ahead of New Season