Kerala Blasters set to sign NorthEast United striker Bartholomew Ogbeche

The Dutchman is in talks to follow his head coach in a move to the outh coast.

After appointing Eelco Schatorrie as their new head coach, Kerala Blasters are looking to raid NorthEast United again to rope in striker Bartholomew Ogbeche.

The Nigerian forwarrd scored 12 goals for the Highlanders and finished second in the top scorer's list alongside Mumbai City's Modou Sougou, only behind Ferran Corominas at the top. He inspired the Guwahati-based outfit to their first Indian Super League (ISL) playoffs last season under the tutelage of Eelco Schatorie.

If things go as per plan the duo will reunite at Kerala Blasters in the upcoming season. The Southerners had a very underwhelming campaign where they managed to win only two matches and finished ninth in the league table. They clearly lacked a proven goal-getter in their ranks, which they are looking to address with Ogbeche's signing.

The Blasters could only manage to score 18 goals, which was the joint-lowest in the league alongside ATK. They simply could not find goals from their forwards last season which resulted in too many draws that hampered their chances of progressing to the playoffs.

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Ogbeche has proven his mettle in India in his first season and he is an experienced campaigner having played in top leagues all across Europe. The Nigerian forward has played for Real Valladolid in Spain, Middlesborough in England and Paris Saint Germain in France. He also featured for top Eredivisie clubs like Cambuur and Willem II, where he was a prolific striker and scored regularly in the Dutch league before joining the Highlanders.

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The 34-year-old has featured for the Nigerian national team, as he made his debut way back in 2002 at the age of 17. He also appeared at the 2002 World Cup for the Super Eagles in South Korea in two of the group matches before their group stage exit.

Kerala Blasters have shown intent in the transfer market with their signings and their appointment of Schatorrie. The Dutch tactician has proven his capabilities in India earlier and will hope to continue the same with the Blasters. With Ogbeche's inclusion, the duo can work their magic again and take the Blasters to greater heights in the upcoming season.