ISL 2017: ATK reportedly join race to sign Indian U-17 forward Komal Thatal

What's the story?

Two-time ISL champions ATK are believed to have entered the race to sign India U-17 sensation Komal Thatal, according to sources close to Sportskeeda.

The forward has already sparked interest from a few I-League clubs and ISL franchise FC Pune City but if reports are to be believed, ATK are now in the driving seat.

In case you didn't know...

Thatal was regarded as one of India's brightest prospects ahead of the recently concluded U-17 World Cup held in India but he only managed to make a single appearance for his side in the opening game of the tournament against the United States.

The youngster from Sikkim was left out of the team for the next two games after reportedly falling out with manager Luis Norton de Matos.

Thatal was also not included in the Indian Arrows side, a team put together by India U-19 and U-17 players, who will feature in the I-League for the first time this season under the same manager Luis Norton de Matos.

The heart of the matter

Sources close to ATK have now revealed that the club has entered the race with FC Pune City to try and convince the player to join them for the current season of the ISL.

Thatal had been holding out for a long time now and was previously approached by I-League side Minerva Punjab FC, who even promised him regular playing time, only for the youngster to turn them down.

The 17-year-old also attracted interest from a Turkish second division side but according to his agent, he prefers a move to the ISL.

What's next?

ATK are now strong favourites to sign Thatal as well and it will be interesting to see which side the player will choose while deciding his future.

Author's take

Thatal is one of India's most exciting talents at the moment and is now becoming the subject of a bidding war between ISL sides. Here's hoping he makes the correct choice and makes the most of the opportunity he gets.