ISL 2017: India U-17 forward Komal Thatal reportedly offered to Kerala Blasters
What's the story?
India U-17 star Komal Thatal is one of the hottest properties in Indian football right now and is fielding offers from a number of clubs -- domestic and abroad. ATK and FC Pune City were already reported to be in line to sign the youngster but now, sources close to the player have informed Sportskeeda that another ISL side might be in the fray.
It has been learned that the youngster was offered to the Kerala Blasters as well by his agent but the Kochi-based side is yet to take a call on the matter.
In case you didn't know
Thatal was earlier dropped from the Indian Arrows squad for the ongoing I-League season and is considering his options. Earlier reports suggested that the Arrows coach Luis Norton de Matos had several problems with the youngster and thus did not choose him for the team.
The forward featured in the FIFA U-17 World Cup for India but only played the opening match against the United States, not getting even a minute on the field in the next two group stage matches against Ghana and Colombia.
The heart of the matter
Thatal was earlier linked to FC Pune City and ATK in the ISL and also turned down a deal from Minerva Punjab FC, who also offered him a guarantee of playing him in a minimum of 10 matches.
It is also understood that he rejected an offer from a second division club in Turkey in favour of an ISL move.
What's next?
The youngster is still without a club so far but is expected to sign for an ISL side in the near future, something that his agent has made clear.
Author's take
Thatal impressed fans across the nation with his sudden bursts of pace and brilliant skill on the ball. He certainly needs to make his choice with extreme care and strike the balance between professional exposure and playing time. Here's hoping he makes the right choice!