Top five free agents still available in Indian football transfer window

In a interesting summer, many high-profile stars are still without clubs in Indian football.

As the Indian football season slowly gains momentum with the Indian Super League (ISL) all set to begin in November, there are still a number of prominent names struggling to find a club before the start of the season. Even I-League clubs have started to build their squads before the campaign begins.

Indeed, with many players being released by ISL sides, a number of prominent names in Indian football are still free agents, waiting for the perfect opportunity. These involve India internationals and former title-winning players that can be precious for any side in the ISL or I-League. So, here are five free agents still available in Indian football.

5. Narayan Das

The industrious left-back has been an ever-bearing presence in the ISL in recent seasons, but his work at Odisha FC during the 2019-20 campaign wasn’t deemed good enough for them to retain his services. After being released by Odisha as the season ended, Narayan is yet to be picked up by any prominent Indian club and is still looking to reclaim his spot in Indian football in the upcoming season.

The 26-year-old has many years of club and national team experience and is a sturdy defender with the ability to create something special going forward. But, with almost every ISL club having sealed their domestic core, it remains to be seen whether Das can be part of a top side in the 2020-21 season.

4. Robin Singh

A player with nearly a decade-long experience in Indian football, Robin Singh is now struggling to find a club in either of the country’s top divisions. He was rarely used at Hyderabad FC in the 2019-20 season, before being loaned to Real Kashmir, where he could not impress either.

The bullish striker can still use his physicality and cause a few surprises around the penalty area, so he could benefit from a side preferring a direct style. Robin has featured regularly in India’s top division over the last decade, so it would be surprising if top clubs decide against signing him.

3. Ashutosh Mehta

Ashutosh Mehta was one of the best defenders in the I-League in the 2019-20 season, playing an integral role in Kibu Vicuna's system to help Mohun Bagan clinch the title in their final season in the league. The hard-working defender poured his heart and soul into their games, nullifying the threat of many dangerous wingers and helping the Mariners maintain a solid defensive shape throughout the season.

Despite his brilliance, Mehta hasn’t been retained by ATK Mohun Bagan till now and no other club has signed him either. The 28-year-old still has plenty of firepower left in his arsenal, so it’ll be a real shocker if he isn’t signed up by a top club soon.

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2. Jeje Lalpekhlua

Jeje Lalpekhlua has witnessed a dismal fall from grace since the AFC Asian Cup campaign in 2019, with injuries hampering his career. The experienced striker was unable to play any part in Chennaiyin FC’s ISL campaign last season and was released as a result.

Due to his fitness issues, Jeje isn’t finding any definitive suitors either. But, if he can prove his fitness once again, there is no doubt that the "Mizo Sniper" will find many interested parties. Knowing his ability to score goals and versatility in attack, Lalpekhlua could still be a valuable player, if he stays fit.

1. Sandesh Jhingan

Ever since he mutually parted ways with Kerala Blasters, there have been so many questions revolving around the future of Sandesh Jhingan. Will he go to play abroad? Will he join another ISL giant? Till now, he hasn’t done either, with the defender more focused on his recovery process after missing the entirety of the last ISL season due to injury.

Jhingan has a big challenge ahead to come back strong from his injury, as he’s still one of the best domestic defenders in the country. He will probably measure his options before choosing the ideal destination that can grant him the success he craves.

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