ISL 2017/18: Kerala Blasters' target Nilmar spotted in Dubai airport on his way to India
What's the story?
Former Brazilian forward Nilmar has been spotted in Dubai International Airport on his way to India, to join the Indian Super League (ISL). Nilmar has been linked with Kerala Blasters FC as manager David James looks to strengthen the team's attack even further.
In case you didn't know
Nilmar represented Brazil for 8 years before retiring in 2011, earning himself 24 caps and also, winning the FIFA Confederations Cup in the year 2009. Nilmar predominantly played in Brazil, but he also represented Lyon and Villareal in Europe. He played for Lyon in the 2004-05 season before moving back to Brazil. He came back to Europe with Villareal and represented the club for 3 years from 2009-2012.
The heart of the matter
When his time in Villareal was up, Nilmar had short spells in clubs like Al-Rayyan (Qatar), Internacional (Brazil) and Al-Nasr (UAE). Now Nilmar is set to come to India to play in the ISL
Nilmar who last played in Dubai is set to make a move to Kerala Blasters FC and will be the likely replacement for Dimitar Berbatov who has been sidelined for a while. As previously reported Berbatov might face the axe as Kerala Blasters, to make way for Nilmar, as they have already filled their quota of International players. David James, in a recent interview, also mentioned that Berbatov has been training with youngsters.
What's next?
Kerala Blasters FC who have 17 points sit in the 7th position, 7 points behind table leaders Bengaluru FC. With David James looking to recruit new players into his squad, it seems that Nilmar could be the newest addition to this team.
Authors take
Nilmar is a clinical striker, who can also operate on the wings. He can bring creativity and versatility to the team which is exactly what Kerala Blasters FC want at this moment. He's currently not in his top form and only time will tell if David James has the potential to make Nilmar a top striker in the ISL.