ISL 2018-19: Jamshedpur FC sign Raju Gaikwad from Mumbai City FC for Rs 60 lakh
What's the story?
Indian Super League (ISL) side Jamshedpur FC have roped in Mumbai City FC defender Raju Gaikwad for a sum of Rs 60 lakh.
In case you didn't know...
Raju Gaikwad had earlier played for East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and FC Goa before moving to Mumbai City FC. He made his top division debut in 2010-11 with now-defunct Paillan Arrows side. Having started 13 games for Mumbai City FC in the 2017-18 Indian Super League, the centre back now looks set for a move to the Steel City.
Jamshedpur FC is one of the two new additions to the franchise tournament through a bidding process, another being Bengaluru FC. Based in Jamshepdpur, Jharkhand, the franchise is owned by TATA Steel.
The heart of the matter
After a relatively successful season when they finished fifth on the ISL table, Jamshedpur FC have secured the services of the Mumbai-born Raju Gaikwad on a one year contract, Sportskeeda has learnt.
The Men of Steel, who have lost out on star defender Anas Edathodika, have brought the 27-year-old as a replacement, offering Mumbai City FC a sum of Rs 60 lakh as the transfer fee. This could turn out to be a welcome change for Gaikwad, who had a lukewarm season at Mumbai City FC, where he made 15 appearances.
What's next?
As it was their first season in the cash-rich league, Jamshedpur FC would consider a fifth-placed finish as somewhat of a successful season in the 2017/18 campaign. They have shown the ability to stand their ground against the tough sides. Now, the Men of Steel will be looking to further strengthen their side, after signing some top Indian players like Gaikwad and Michael Soosairaj.
Author's Take
Jamshedpur FC were one of the most cohesive and resilient defensive sides last year, conceding the least number of goals (18) after Bengaluru FC (16). With Raju Gaikwad up in their ranks, the defensive line of Jamshedpur is only set to get better.