Sahal joins Bagan, Blasters sign Kotal in swap deal

As expected, star player Sahal Abdul Samad has left ISL side Kerala Blasters. The Yellow Brigade swapped Sahal for Mohun Bagan Super Giant defender Pritam Kotal for a fee of Rs 90 lakh.

"The Club has reached an agreement for the transfer of Sahal Abdul Samad in exchange for a player and an undisclosed transfer fee. It’s with a heavy heart that the Club bids adieu to Sahal, and we wish him the best in his journey ahead," Blasters had tweeted earlier on Friday.

The 26-year-old, who netted 10 goals for Blasters from 92 games, has inked a five-year deal with Bagan.

Bagan have been quite active in the transfer window and Sahal becomes their third India international signing after Anirudh Thapa and Anwar Ali.

The green-and-maroon brigade have also roped in A-League winning Australia World Cuper Jason Cummings and Albanian forward Armando Sadiku.

Kotal, who has penned a three-year deal with the Blasters, is the first big player to exit the Bagan setup. 

Kotal has loads of experience and his presence will boost the Blasters backline. The 29-year-old has also played for Delhi Dynamos and ATK in the ISL.

Sahal joined Kerala Blasters back in 2017 and rose rapidly through the side's reserve team.

After making his ISL debut in 2017-18 with Blasters, Sahal enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in 2018-19, winning the ISL Emerging Player of the Season award.

His impactful performances also earned him a national team call-up and eventually a debut at the 2019 King's Cup in Thailand.

(With inputs from PTI)