IFTWC can confirm that Hira Mondal has been signed up by NorthEast United FC on a free transfer. The 26-year-old, who had only recently signed with Bengaluru FC, has been without a team since November. In a statement posted on its social media channels, Bengaluru had announced that Mondal’s contract had been terminated by mutual consent.
At the start of the campaign, Hira Mondal had featured in four Durand Cup games for the Blues and eventually won the storied trophy well . He didn’t play in another game for the Blues, though, and sat out the entire first half of the Indian Super League in the sidelines.
After a strong season with East Bengal FC, Mondal rose to prominence and was much sought after since his contract expired in the summer. While it initially looked likely that he would stay with the Red and Gold, Hira ultimately chose to join Bengaluru FC. Mondal, however, found himself on the bench throughout his stint with Bengaluru in the ISL as it was difficult to unseat the likes of Roshan Singh who was already one of the stars of the team.
Hira made his ISL debut last season and has since appeared in sixteen games. The left-back will now be a part of NorthEast United FC. Hira is almost certain to play more more often under Annese, and NorthEast were also in need of some quality at the back, so the move seems to be ideal for both parties.
The Highlanders are currently last in the ISL standings and have conceeded 33 goals, which is the most of any team this season. Since the January transfer window is now open, NorthEast will need to make more such signings in order to give themselves the boost they desperately need to move up the table and out of last place.
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