ISL 2017: World Cup winning ex-AC Milan striker Alberto Gilardino reportedly in talks with multiple ISL clubs
What's the story?
Indian Super League has seen a fair number of foreign stars being signed by the ten clubs for the upcoming season. Superstars like Robbie Keane, Wes Brown and Dimitar Berbatov have signed up for the elite competition in the country and according to trusted reports from Italy, one more illustrious name may be added to this list soon.
Tuttomercatoweb, an Italian tabloid has claimed that Alberto Gilardino, the 35-year-old striker, has offers from the ISL on his table and is currently mulling over the idea of accepting a stint in the country.
In case you didn't know...
Gilardino has spent most of his career in his homeland along with a short spell in China with Guangzhou Evergrande. A youth product from Piacenza, Gilardino spent his best years with AC Milan and Fiorentina. With the Rossoneri, Gilardino scored 36 goals in 94 matches and for La Viola, the striker notched up 48 goals in 118 appearances. A World Cup winner and a Confederations Cup winner with Italy, Gilardino achieved 57 caps for the Azzurri in which he scored 19 times.
The heart of the matter
The veteran represented Empoli and Pescara last season but could not manage a goal in Serie A. But Gilardino is keen on extending his playing career and is reportedly considering offers from India and the MLS.
After leaving Tuscany, Gilardino is reportedly looking for two more years of playing at a competitive level which might enable the ISL clubs to tie him down on a long term deal.
Though the ISL clubs which are monitoring the striker's situation are yet to be known, Mumbai City FC and Chennaiyin FC can be predicted as two of the sides interested in him.
What next?
If Gilardino agrees upon a move to the ISL, he will become the fourth high profile Italian signing in the league. Previously, the likes of Alessandro Del Piero, Alessandro Nesta and David Trezeguet have plied their trade in the cash-rich league.
Author's take
Playing in Italy's top division last season, Gilardino is still in fine shape and can do a decent job for any ISL side in the five-month long competition. Gilardino has shown that he still has the legs required to do the needful. Signing a proven poacher in Gilardino can become a statement signing for any ISL club interested in the forward.