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East Bengal set sights on Mumbai City’s Rising Star Apuia

May 10, 2024
<a href="https://revsportz.in/author/snehasis/" rel="author" class="url fn n" itemprop="url"><img alt='' src='https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/11ab132806a19925cd2a1f12aac66bf1?s=32&d=mm&r=g' srcset='https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/11ab132806a19925cd2a1f12aac66bf1?s=64&d=mm&r=g 2x' class='avatar avatar-32 photo' height='32' width='32' decoding='async'/> <span class="" itemprop="name">Snehasis Mukherjee</span></a>
Mumbai City FC and Carles Cuadrat
Mumbai City FC and Carles Cuadrat (PC: ISL/X)

East Bengal FC (EBFC) are reportedly interested in signing Lalengmawia Ralte (Apuia) from Mumbai City FC (MCFC), ahead of the next season. According to sources, the Red and Gold Brigade have already enquired about Apuia’s availability for the next season. Initial talks have taken place, though East Bengal are yet to meet Mumbai’s valuation.

As reported earlier by RevSportz, the meeting between East Bengal’s club officials and sponsors, Emami group, took place on Thursday. The officials stated that they have already initiated the process of recruiting two wing-halves, a midfielder, and a defender. They have been in talks with a few players and hopefully, by the end of this month, will be able to disclose the names. Hence, the club now being linked to the Indian midfielder, is not a surprise.

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Mumbai City FC with the ISL Trophy
Mumbai City FC with the ISL Trophy (Image: ISL)

Apuia’s current contract with the club runs till May 31, 2026. Hence, for a player with two years still left in his contract, East Bengal will have to pay a hefty amount to avail his services. The 23-year-old midfielder had another fruitful season for the Islanders. He played 22 matches and delivered consistent performances.

Apuia also managed 1 goal and 2 assists. He has now played 5 ISL seasons and has a vast experience of playing 91 matches in the league! So, if Carles Cuadrat can really pull this deal off, it will be a huge boost to their squad along with Souvik Chakrabarti and Saul Crespo in the middle. Meanwhile, a few days back, EBFC were also linked with a move for another MCFC midfielder, Vinit Rai. However, after Carles’ departure from Bengaluru FC in 2021, in an exclusive chat with Sportskeeda, he was asked about Apuia.

At that time, the young midfielder used to play for NorthEast United. In reply, the Spaniard said that he has been doing great for his club and he can play for the National Team also. Currently, Apuia is one of the regular starters in Igor Stimac’s playing XI and has played 13 matches for India. So, there has been a clear admiration for Apuia. East Bengal fans will go berserk if their club manage to sign him for the next season.

Also Read: East Bengal to strengthen squad with hike in budget