In the latest exclusive ISL transfer news, Chennaiyin FC has completed the signing of Lalmalsawma Khawlhring from Aizawl FC, IFTWC can confirm.
/sportzpoint/media/post_attachments/1c7765e5ece8e63464a4dd687d7c64460b5a0e870cb71613aa3c63a80a868f58.jpg)
Lalthathanga Khawlhring, popularly known as Puitea, started out in the Mizoram Premier League, where he was awarded the best midfielder of the year award in 2015 season while playing for Bethlehem Vengthlang. Making his Hero ISL debut with NorthEast United FC during the 2018-19 season, Puitea established himself as a mainstay in Eelco Schattorie's team, playing 20 matches en route to the Hero ISL semi-finals. After an injury-ridden campaign next season with the Highlanders, Puitea joined Kerala Blasters FC ahead of Hero ISL 2020-21 and scored one goal in 10 appearances for them.
Lalmalsawma was a part of the ATK's reserve team back in 2019 before making his way to Aizawl in the I-League. The 23-year-old, who plays right back primarily, appeared in 15 games for Aizawl last season and had become a crucial part of the squad over the past two years. Lalmalsawma's arrival is anticipated to address the Marina Machans' lack of alternatives on the right side of the defense.
This year, Chennaiyin has completely rebuilt their squad, bringing in and letting go of a number of players. With only one spot remaining, they have finalised most of their foreign signings and have also significantly bolstered their Indian core.
After agreeing to terms with Vincy Barreto, Sajal Bag, and Akash Sangwan, they also recently aquired the services of local talents Lijo Francis and Jockson Dhas. Along with adding seasoned players like Mohammed Rafique and Romario Jesuraj, they have also extended the contract of promising defender Sajid Dhot. Gurmukh Singh, Jiteshwor Singh, Sourav Das, and Bengal captain Manotosh Chakladar are among the other names who have been signed up by Chennai in the past few months.
Rafa Crivellaro was the only foreign player from the previous squad to be kept, and they have already revealed five new signings, with Ghanaian attacker Kwame Karikari at the top of the list. Along with Petar Sliskovic from German club SV Wehen Wiesbaden, Fallou Diagne, who worked with head coach Thomas Brdaric in Albania, has also been acquired. Iranian defender Vafa Hakhamaneshi will also be seen sporting the Chennaiyin blue.
For more exclusive ISL transfer news, follow Sportz Point.