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What’s the story?
Indian Super League champions Chennaiyin FC have are close to acquiring the services of Indian midfielder, Isaac Vanmalsawma. Isaac, who earlier played for FC Pune City, is said to have agreed to terms with the Chennai franchise.
In case you didn’t know…
Back in 2014, Vanmalsawma signed a deal with Shillong Lajong, following which he was registered as a part of their senior team. Isaac went on to make five appearances for Lajong in the I-League in the two years that he spent at the club.
After ending his stint with Shillong Lajong, the twenty-one-year-old midfield wizard was picked up by FC Pune City ahead of the 2017-18 ISL season.
Isaac is considered to be a versatile player, who blends in very quickly. He is most comfortable playing either on the wing or as an offensive midfielder. His senior debut for India came against Kyrgyzstan when he was called up to play for the country ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier matches.
Heart of the matter
For FCPC, he was seen playing in the midfield for a total of eight matches throughout the previous season. However, the 21-year-old now seems to be on his way out of the Balewadi Stadium, with Chennaiyin Fc showing a lot of interest in him.
Isaac himself is said to have shown interest in the offer and is likely to pen the deal that would see him join the reigning champions next season. Incidentally, no transfer fee would be involved in the transfer, should it take place, Sportskeeda has learnt.
What’s next?
Having been knocked out of the Super Cup during their clash against Aizawl FC, Chennaiyin will be seeking to make amends and bounce back stronger to defend their ISL title next season, and Isaac could play an essential role in coach Gregory’s midfield to make the difference for the team from Chennai.
Author’s take
With a set up like Chennaiyin FC, Isaac Vanmalsawma could become the next big player India needs. He could turn out to be a top signing for the Super Machans and under the guidance of John Gregory, and colleagues like Jeje Lalpekhlua, Henrique Sereno and the likes, would make great role models for Isaac to develop under.
