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The talk of the town these days with regards to Indian football is undoubtedly one unassuming 17-year-old in Dheeraj Singh Moirangthem. The India U-17 custodian impressed one and all during the team's brief stint at the FIFA U-17 World Cup held in India itself.
It is that grit and desire showed by the Manipuri boy that now has some of Europe's biggest clubs frantically looking to get in touch with the youngster for a trial and perhaps even a permanent move.
Speaking of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, Dheeraj made his mark on any and all who viewed India's matches against stiff opposition in a group that gave the hosts literally no chance of qualification. While the team did not qualify from the group, there were some striking positives which came mostly from the team's goalkeeper. The former Indian Arrows stopper was exceptional in goal for the colts and commanded his area like any other professional goalkeeper, making for some interesting viewing and instantly grabbing the attention of the powers-that-be.
Now, with the world at his feet, Dheeraj embarks on a possible life-altering journey that could see him go to some of the continent's biggest teams. The only question that remains is, which team will get him first? Here are 5 possible options for the North Eastern talent.
#5 Motherwell FC
This looks like perhaps the likeliest of destinations for young Dheeraj as the keeper has already agreed terms with the club for a trial to be held in Scotland. His present training at the club appears to be going rather smoothly with the team constantly hyping his arrival in the United Kingdom.
There is no doubt that this would be a good move for the stopper considering that Motherwell play in the Scottish first division. They will provide a lucrative opportunity for the teenager to play with top teams such as Celtic and Rangers. As of now, the biggest glitch seems to be the lack of a work permit to play in the UK.
#4 Charlton Athletic
Charlton may not be a part of the English top flight at the moment, but there is no doubt that the team has a relatively decent standing in the English game. A former Premier League side in their own right, Charlton Athletic showed interest in Dheeraj following his heroics in the World Cup and subsequently offered him a trial.
It remains to be seen if the teenager takes up the offer considering complications around the work permit but a trial would certainly do him no harm. With The Addicks requiring a stable goalkeeper at the back, perhaps an Indian could be the answer to their problems.
#3 Toronto FC
Across the Atlantic Ocean, another ocean of opportunities awaits Dheeraj Singh with possible interest coming in from Major League Soccer (MLS) club Toronto FC. The defending MLS Cup champions' interest piqued following India's match against the USA in the group stages of the World Cup where a stoic Dheeraj continuously frustrated the Americans before finally accepting defeat.
Even in defeat, there was genuine interest in the teenager and he has since been approached by the club for a trial in Canada. This could be another reasonable place of choice for a keeper looking to make his mark on an International stage.
#2 West Ham United
Another very interesting inclusion in this list is Premier League side West Ham United. The club is currently managed by David Moyes and the former Manchester United manager is said to be very keen on the talent of Dheeraj Singh after he was spotted at the World Cup.
England went on to win the tournament but many scouts from the nation were looking for possible candidates and Dheeraj's name was brought up. Again, the problem of the work permit may come up but this opportunity would no doubt have Dheeraj chomping at the bit to take with both hands. A move to the Hammers may be the most lucrative for the youngster's career.
#1 Galatasaray FC
Yet another big name being thrown around with regards to Dheeraj Singh appears to be multiple-time Turkish Champions Galatasaray. The team has frequently featured in the UEFA Champions League and are a team with serious pedigree.
With the side looking to expand their horizons and bring in players from Asia as a marketing exercise, this could perhaps be the best chance that the custodian will get to play for such a top European club. Again, it remains to be seen how this deal, if any, plays through but it makes for some thoroughly exciting prospects for Indian fans.
