Puitea signs long-term deal with ATK Mohun Bagn; to join on 1st Jan

The midfielder didn't receive appropriate game-time this season at Kerala Blasters.

Kerala Blasters midfielder Puitea has signed a long-term deal with ATK Mohun Bagan, Khel Now can confirm. A source close to the development informed Khel Now, "Puitea will join ATK Mohun Bagan on 1st January as the club has paid a transfer fee to buyout his last six months at Kerala Blasters."

ATK Mohun Bagan are currently facing a chaotic situation as most of their squad is injured, including some players who have been ruled out for the season. Hence, the addition of Puitea into the squad to solidify the Mariners' midfield as they aim to finish on the top of the table.

About the player

Puitea was a revelation for the past two seasons at Kerala Blasters. Last season the midfielder played 20 games for the Blasters and assisted thrice. This season however, with the arrival of Ivan Kaliuzhnyi, the KBFC think-tank has provided more opportunity to the Ukrainian instead of Puitea.

Last time, he formed a brilliant partnership with Jeakson Singh in the middle of the park and undoubtedly, was one of the key factors why Kerala Blasters made it to the grand finale. With less game-time (six appearances) this season, the 24-year-old making a switch to ATK Mohun Bagan seems a good decision from the player's side.

ATK Mohun Bagan's ISL campaign so far

The Mariners are currently finding it hard to find an intact matchday squad since most of their key players are out due to injuries. Joni Kauko and Florentin Pogba have been ruled out of the season. Manvir Singh is currently suffering from an injury and not expected to make it against FC Goa. Even the likes of Ashique Kuruniyan and Hugo Boumous are injured.

The club has recently acquired the services of Serbian defender Slavko Damjanovic, who plied his trade for Chennaiyin FC, previously in the Indian Super League.