Mourtada Fall in advanced talks with Odisha FC

Mourtada Fall has scored 17 goals in the ISL, the most by a defender.

Odisha FC are in advanced talks with Mumbai City defender Mourtada Fall, Khel Now can confirm. The highest-scoring defender in the Indian Super League, Fall did not have the best of seasons this time at the Islanders. Moreover, the potential move of Sergio Lobera from Sichuan Jiuniu to Odisha FC is also a reason why the defender is edged towards joining the Juggernauts.

A source tracking the move informed Khel Now, "Mourtada Fall is in advanced talks with Odisha FC. It looks as if the deal might be done in a few days' or weeks' time." But will Fall get the same priority he got a few years back at the clubs he played, considering his current form and the presence of other defenders at Odisha FC?

The source added, "Carlos Delgado, who is the captain, recently penned an extension with Odisha. But you never know, it all depends on who the coach prefers or who performs better in training. Fall is not only a big name but also the best in the ISL itself."

About Mourtada Fall

Mourtada Fall followed the footsteps of Sergio Lobera when the tactician tip-toed into Indian soil and took charge at FC Goa. After two outstanding seasons at the Gaurs, when Lobera shifted base from Goa to Mumbai City, Fall along with some of his teammates followed suit.

The 35-year-old has three ISL Shields under his belt, two at Mumbai and one at Goa. However, this season, when Mumbai City lifted it for the second time, the Senegalese was not the first-choice defender at the club. Only after Rostyn Griffiths succumbed to an injury, Fall was called into action by Des Buckingham.

As it is, Fall's contract ends this summer at the Islanders. A move at this juncture is what both parties would have wanted. As per reports, Tiri, who recently bid farewell to ATK Mohun Bagan, might be the potential replacement of Fall at Mumbai.

Odisha FC's preparations

Odisha FC recently lifted the Hero Super Cup, which is actually their first-ever accolade in the trophy room. And now, they are charged up to do well in the Indian Super League next season. As per reports, they are all set to welcome their new mentor Sergio Lobera at the helm. They have also added the likes of Laldinliana Renthlei to the squad. As it stands, Odisha FC are in search of rejuvenation, and it looks as if they are not far from the destination.