ISL 2017/18: Kerala Blasters looking at Nilmar as Dimitar Berbatov replacement
What's the story?
Kerala Blasters manager David James is looking to rebuild his squad during the January transfer window and is said to have tabled an offer Brazilian forward Nilmar, in a bid to boost his attacking department.
In case you didn't know...
Predominantly a centre-forward, Nilmar is a player, who can operate on both the wings as well, making him a versatile option for the Kerala boss. The Brazilian also carries with him vast experience after having played for some of the best football clubs like Olympique Lyon in the French Ligue 1, and Villarreal in La Liga.
The heart of the matter
While the Blasters have already filled their quota of eight foreign players in their squad, they are said to be willing to let go of some of their underperforming stars. Sportskeeda had already reported earlier that former Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov faces the axe in Kochi.
Now a former agent from the UK has revealed that James, who had played for Liverpool and Manchester City during his footballing career, is ready to drop the former Manchester United man from his squad.
Currently a free agent, Nilmar had last played for Brazilian giants Santos, who had signed him in July last year. However, he ended up making only two appearances for the club, clocking a total of just 39 minutes, before he parted ways with Santos, as he was said to have been suffering from depression.
What's next?
The Blasters got back to winning ways with a 2-1 victory over bottom club Delhi Dynamos. While they themselves have been struggling, David James' men will now attempt to build this momentum and break into the top four spots in the league.
Author's take
Nilmar is considered to be a talented football player, who brings a lot of creativity to the plate. However, his recent track record has not been great, and it remains to be seen whether he is past his prime or not.