In a significant move ahead of the AFC Champions League 2, reigning Indian Super League (ISL) champions Mohun Bagan Super Giant have secured the services of India international Mehtab Singh from Mumbai City FC. The transfer, finalized for an undisclosed fee, comes despite Mehtab being in the final year of his contract, with Bagan initially hoping to sign him on a free transfer next season.
Reports suggest that growing uncertainty surrounding Mumbai City’s plans for the upcoming ISL season, coupled with Bagan’s urgency to strengthen their squad following a 1–0 Durand Cup derby defeat to East Bengal, accelerated negotiations. The Mariners have opted to pay a fee to ensure Mehtab’s availability ahead of their continental campaign.
The 27-year-old defender is set to undergo a medical this weekend. If all goes as planned, he will officially join the Kolkata-based side shortly after.
A right-sided centre-back known for his composure and consistency, Mehtab made 26 appearances for Mumbai City last season and found the net once against Hyderabad FC. Since his move from East Bengal in 2020, he has played 118 matches for the Islanders, helping them clinch two ISL League Winners Shields and ISL Cups.
On the international front, Mehtab was a key figure in India’s defense in 2023, contributing to the team’s title-winning runs in the Intercontinental Cup, the Tri-Nations Series, and the SAFF Championship under former head coach Igor Stimac.
His addition to the Mohun Bagan roster is seen as a strategic one. With foreign defenders Tom Aldred and Alberto Rodriguez in the squad, Mehtab could either start in their place or serve as cover for right-back Asish Rai, who came under scrutiny for his performance in the recent loss to East Bengal.
If Mehtab does replace one of the foreign centre-backs in the starting XI, the Mariners will also have the flexibility to field another overseas attacker. This could pave the way for the potential signing of Brazilian winger Robson Robinho, with whom the club has reportedly reached a verbal agreement.
Mohun Bagan will begin their AFC Champions League 2 journey on September 16 against Turkmenistan’s Ahal Anew. Drawn in a competitive group with Ahal Anew, Iran’s Foolad Mobarakeh Sepahan, and Jordan’s Al-Hussein, the Mariners are building a squad with depth and balance to make a strong continental impression.
