Transfer Saga: Kerala Blasters go through complete overhaul

The club has signed big names like Prabir Das, Pritam Kotal and Ishan Pandita

Last season, Kerala Blasters lost by a whisker to Bengaluru FC and got knocked out of the race for ISL trophy. The club from Kerala has been one of the most happening entity in Indian football. Performance of Blasters have always made the scenario of Indian football interesting. The club has really worked a lot this time to turn things in their favor and garner some success.

Kerala Blasters FC, one of the Indian Super League's most followed clubs, embarked on an ambitious journey during this summer's transfer window. The club's management, determined to make significant improvements, made several notable signings to strengthen their squad. In this article, we will provide an in-depth review of Kerala Blasters' transfer window activity, examining each acquisition's potential impact on their upcoming campaign.

Transfers In

• Jaushua Sotirio (Newcastle Jets):

The Blasters kicked off their summer recruitment with the signing of Australian forward Jaushua Sotirio from Newcastle Jets. While the transfer fee remains undisclosed, it reflects the club's commitment to strengthening their attack. Sotirio's speed, technical skills, and goal-scoring ability make him a promising addition to the squad. However, he caught up the injury in the pre season and is expected to sit out in this campaign

• Prabir Das (Bengaluru FC):

Prabir Das, an experienced right-back, joined Kerala Blasters on a free transfer from Bengaluru FC. Known for his defensive prowess and attacking contributions, Das is a valuable asset. His arrival will bolster the team's defense while adding width and creativity in attack. 

• Naocha Singh (Loan from Mumbai City FC):

The loan acquisition of Naocha Singh from Mumbai City FC reinforces Kerala Blasters' defensive options. Singh, a young and talented left-back, is renowned for his solid defensive work and contributions in attack. Although loan deals can be somewhat unpredictable, if Naocha Singh adapts quickly, he could prove crucial to the Blasters' backline.

• Pritam Kotal (Swap Deal from Mohun Bagan SG):

In a swap deal involving Pritam Kotal and Sahal Abdul Samad with Mohun Bagan SG, Kerala Blasters made a bold move. Kotal, an experienced defender, provides stability in defense, while Sahal's departure offers Mohun Bagan SG a talented midfielder. This trade could prove beneficial for both clubs, as Kotal's defensive expertise could solidify Kerala's backline.

• Lara Sharma (Loan from Bengaluru FC):

Lara Sharma's loan move from Bengaluru FC enhances the Blasters' goalkeeping options. While he may not immediately claim the starting position, having a reliable backup goalkeeper is essential in a long ISL season. This signing ensures added security in case of injuries or suspensions.

• Milos Drincic (Free Transfer):

Kerala Blasters strengthened their defense by securing the services of Milos Drincic on a free transfer. The Serbian midfielder brings experience and defensive stability to the team. His ability to read the game and hold the defense tight with his experience are one his strengths

• Ishan Pandita (Jamshedpur FC):

Ishan Pandita, a young and dynamic forward, joined Kerala Blasters on a free transfer from Jamshedpur FC. Pandita's signing adds depth and competition to the Blasters' attacking options. His potential to score crucial goals makes him a valuable asset, especially in high-pressure situations.

• Kwame Peprah (Free Transfer):

Kwame Peprah's arrival on a free transfer injects additional firepower into Kerala Blasters' attack. The Ghanaian forward's knack for scoring goals makes him a player to watch in the upcoming season. His physicality and finishing ability could make a significant impact.

• Aibhanbha Dohling (FC Goa):

The undisclosed fee transfer of Aibhanbha Dohling from FC Goa indicates the Blasters' investment in the young defender. Dohling's addition strengthens the team's defensive options and provides healthy competition for starting roles. With time and development, he could become a key figure in the Blasters' defense.

• Freddy Lallawmawma (Punjab FC):

Kerala Blasters acquired Freddy Lallawmawma from Punjab FC for an undisclosed fee. Lallawmawma is a versatile defensive midfielder capable of contributing both defensively and in attack. His signing adds depth to the squad and increases competition for starting positions.

• Daisuke Sakai (Free Transfer):

The free transfer signing of Daisuke Sakai adds depth and experience to the Blasters' midfield. Sakai's technical ability and tactical awareness could prove vital in controlling midfield battles during the ISL season.

Loaned Out:

• Nishu Kumar (East Bengal FC):

Nishu Kumar was loaned out to East Bengal FC, providing him with an opportunity to gain more playing time.

• Bikash Singh (Mohammedan SC):

Bikash Singh's loan to Mohammedan SC aimed to give him valuable experience in a different setting.

• Muhammad Ajsal (Inter Kashi):

Muhammad Ajsal's loan to Inter Kashi was likely to provide him with regular game time and development opportunities.

• Bijoy Varghese (Inter Kashi):

Similar to Muhammad Ajsal, Bijoy Varghese was also loaned out to Inter Kashi for potential development.

• Justine Emmanuel (Gokulam Kerala): 

Justine Emmanuel was loaned to Gokulam Kerala, offering him an opportunity to play in a different environment.

• Muhammed Shaheef (Gokulam Kerala):

 Muhammed Shaheef was also loaned to Gokulam Kerala for development purposes.

• Givson Singh Moirangthem (Odisha FC):

The midfielder will play on loan for Odisha FC this season.

Transfers Out:

• Jessel Carneiro (Free Transfer): 

Jessel Carneiro left Kerala Blasters on a free transfer, marking the end of his tenure with the club.

• Victor Mongil (Contract Expired): 

Victor Mongil's contract with Kerala Blasters expired, leading to his departure from the club.

• Apostolos Giannou (Contract Expired):

 Apostolos Giannou's contract with Kerala Blasters also expired, and he left the club.

• Ivan Kaliuzhnyi (Loan Completed, returned to FC Oleksandriya):

 Ivan Kulyuznhyi's loan spell with Kerala Blasters ended, and he returned to his parent club, FC Oleksandriya.

• Harmanjot Khabra (Joined East Bengal, free transfer):

 Harmanjot Khabra left Kerala Blasters on a free transfer and joined East Bengal.

• Muheet Khan (Contract Expired): 

Muheet Khan's contract with Kerala Blasters expired, leading to his departure.

• Denechandra Meetei (Contract Terminated): 

Denechandra Meetei's contract was terminated by the club, resulting in his departure.

• Prabhsukhan Gill (Undisclosed Transfer Fee, joined East Bengal):

Prabhsukhan Gill moved to East Bengal for an undisclosed transfer fee, providing him with a new opportunity.

• Ayush Adhikari (Contract Expired): 

Ayush Adhikari's contract with Kerala Blasters expired, leading to his exit.

• Sahal Abdul Samad (Mohun Bagan SG, undisclosed fee):

Sahal Abdul Samad was transferred to Mohun Bagan SG for an undisclosed fee as part of the swap deal with Pritam Kotal.

Kerala Blasters FC's aggressive approach in the summer transfer window reflects their ambition to compete at the highest level. The club's recruitment strategy, encompassing a mix of young talents and seasoned professionals, has reinvigorated the squad. While financial details for some signings remain undisclosed, the quality and potential impact of these acquisitions are unquestionable.

As the new signings integrate with the existing squad, Kerala Blasters fans have reason to be optimistic about the upcoming ISL season. The club's commitment to improvement and their faith in the new arrivals suggest a renewed determination to excel in Indian football. Supporters eagerly await the season's kickoff to witness how these signings perform on the field, as the Blasters aim to make a resounding statement in the ISL