Kerala Blasters set to sign Vincy Barretto from Gokulam Kerala for undisclosed fee

The versatile winger lifted the I-League title with the Malabarians earlier this month.

Indian Super League (ISL) outfit Kerala Blasters are all set to complete the signing of Vincy Barretto from I-League champions Gokulam Kerala, Khel Now can confirm. The club will secure the signing of the player from the Malabarians by paying an undisclosed fee.

“Gokulam Kerala will be parting ways with Vincy Barretto, who will join Kerala Blasters in exchange for a transfer fee that will be paid to the Malabarians,” a source close to the developments informed Khel Now.

A winger by trade, Vincy Barretto first created an impact when he played for Dempo SC’s U-18 side. He was then signed by FC Goa ahead of the 2017-18 season at just 17 years of age. The Gaurs slotted him into their developmental side, where he played for a few months. In January the following year, he was promoted to their reserves team that played in the Goa Professional League (GPL) and the Second Division League.

In the 2018-19 season, the 20-year-old played an important role for the Goan club, as they went on to lift the GPL title by winning 17 out of 22 matches. He also made nine Second Division League appearances for them, before joining Gokulam Kerala last summer.

Vincy Barretto made it into the GKFC matchday squad in 14 out of their 16 games in the I-League 2020-21. He had 13 appearances in all, and also notched an assist during the 3-1 win against TRAU FC on February 13. The winger is known for his pace and versatility, having proven his abilities to play as a striker or a wing-back as well. With him as a part of the team, Gokulam Kerala lifted the league title on March 27, beating TRAU 4-1 in what was a 'virtual final' as the latter were also in the race for the crown.

Meanwhile, Kerala Blasters endured a very difficult and disappointing ISL 2020-21 campaign, finishing at the penultimate spot on the league table. They were able to win just thrice and also had to part ways with then head coach Kibu Vicuna following a disappointing string of results.

The club seem to have already launched their re-build plans and are actively in pursuit of more players and a new head coach. They recently announced the signing of former FIFA U-17 World Cup starlet Sanjeev Stalin, with more arrivals expected in the weeks to come.

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