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What's the story?
ISL franchise Jamshedpur FC is set to sign I-league side Chennai City FC's skipper Michael Soosairaj after an impressive campaign for the South Indian club, it has been learnt.
In case you didn't know...
Michael Soosairaj is a 23-year old midfielder who has been part of the Chennai City FC setup since their time in the Chennai Super Division. He has represented Tamil Nadu in the Santosh Trophy on two occasions.
The heart of the matter
Chennai City FC captain Michael Soosairaj is on the verge of signing for ISL franchise Jamshedpur FC amidst interest from various ISL clubs following an impressive showing in the I-League this season. The 23-year old Soosairaj played 18 matches for Chennai City FC this season in the I-League and notched up a tally of three goals and three assists to his name.
The midfielder impressed one and all with his play for the South Indian side and helped the Chennai outfit escape relegation from the I-League this season. ISL franchises Mumbai City FC, NorthEast United FC and Chennaiyin FC were keen on signing Soosairaj but Jamshedpur FC seem to have edged out the competition for his signature.
Chennai City FC is set to reportedly gain a sum of INR 25 Lakhs for Soosairaj's transfer to the Jharkhand-based outfit. Chennai City FC is also trying to add a buyback option for Soosairaj in case Jamshedpur FC decide to sell him in future. The player will have a buyout clause of around 95 Lakhs and Chennai City FC will receive a 15% share of the transfer amount if Jamshedpur FC sells him to any other club.
Michael Soosairaj will become the second player from Chennai City FC to jump ship to the Indian Super League after Nandhakumar Sekar completed his move to the Delhi Dynamos earlier this season, after initially being on loan.
What's next?
Jamshedpur FC is expected to formally announce the signing of Michael Soosairaj in the near future.
Author's take
Michael Soosairaj has been one of the most impressive prospects in the I-League and was the brightest presence in a somewhat lackluster Chennai City FC squad. His impressive exploits were bound to impress ISL franchises and Jamshedpur FC has done well to act quickly to secure his signing.
