A list of Indian ISL stars who will be up for grabs on a free transfer during the January transfer window.
Similar to the leagues around the world, the Indian Super League (ISL) clubs are expected to be busy during the January transfer window. It will be an important period for clubs looking to strengthen their squads ahead of next season.
The excitement of pre-contract signings comes with analysis by clubs to select the best out of the available players. As Indian football fans eagerly await news of ISL players, who are nearing the end of their contracts, clubs will be looking for players with that valued ‘X-Factor’.
Here’s a look at the top 10 Indian talents who could be available for clubs to sign pre-contract agreements in January.
10. Sumit Rathi (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)
The 23-year-old dynamic defender has been a promising player with solid tackling ability and aerial prowess. His ability to play both centrally and as a full-back makes him a valuable addition to any backline.
However, the high-flying Mariners haven’t been able to give him a proper chance to prove himself. Being a two-time ISL champion and in his early twenties, Rathi will be a player a lot of clubs will be looking to raid from Mohun Bagan in January.
9. Ayush Chhetri (FC Goa)
A rising star in Indian football, Ayush Chhetri’s composure and technical abilities have caught the eye of many ISL clubs this season. As a promising young midfielder, he represents the future of Indian football and a potential long-term investment for clubs.
The 21-year-old has played in 58 per cent of FC Goa’s games this season and will be a player a lot of teams will be keeping an eye on in January. While head coach Manolo Marquez will try to keep hold of the young player, a lot of ISL clubs will be keeping tabs on his availability.
8. Souvik Chakrabarti (East Bengal FC)
A seasoned campaigner, Souvik’s experience and versatility allow him to excel in both defensive and midfield roles. His work rate and ability to read the game make him a dependable option for any side.
Having made 11 appearances this season, Chakrabarti has helped East Bengal FC keep 4 clean sheets. With a huge turnaround in their last few games, the 33-year-old has led his team by forming a solid partnership with Anwar Ali in the heart of defence. With impressive performances this season, the Torchbearers will be having a hard time fending off interest from ISL clubs for his services.
7. Jerry Lalrinzuala (Odisha FC)
One of India’s finest left-backs, Lalrinzuala is known for his defensive reliability and overlapping runs. The 26-year-old’s versatility and consistency have made him a key figure in his team, and with his contract running out soon, he could be a key target for many ISL teams.
His potential availability is bound to spark interest from clubs as defenders of his quality don’t come around too often. With Odisha FC flying high this season, the clubs will be looking to make huge strides next season by signing one of the Juggernauts’ star players away from them.
6. Rowlin Borges (FC Goa)
A veteran defensive midfielder, Rowlin Borges combines tactical intelligence with exceptional ball-winning skills. His leadership and ability to break up opposition attacks make him a priority for teams seeking stability in the centre of the park.
While injuries have hampered his chances of playing in the 2024-2025 season, a fully-fit Borges is an asset for any team. His experience at the highest level makes him a wanted man for any ISL team.
5. Harsh Patre (Bengaluru FC)
The dynamic midfielder has been quietly making waves with his composed play and exceptional vision for the Blues. Patre’s ability to dictate the tempo of games makes him a promising option for clubs looking to solidify their midfield.
While he has found limited game-time under Gerard Zaragoza this season, in the right system Patre could be a fantastic midfielder. With a good eye for breaking up attacks, the 21-year-old could be a good player for any team looking for midfield options in January.
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4. Leon Augustine (Punjab FC)
The 26-year-old right midfielder has shown attacking prowess and ability to adapt to various forwards for the Shers. Known for his energy and off-the-ball movement, Leon is expected to attract significant interest following his exploits this season.
Coach Panagiotis Dilmperis deployed him as a wing-back in games this season, which has allowed him to explore his full potential. Any team looking for a versatile player who can contribute on both ends of the pitch can go after him.
3. Bipin Singh (Mumbai City FC)
A seasoned winger playing for Mumbai City FC with a knack for scoring crucial goals, Bipin Singh brings experience and consistency. His pace on the flanks and ability to deliver in big matches make him a player to watch out for any team that is aiming to strengthen their offensive side of things.
Singh, being a former ISL champion, will bring a championship DNA for teams looking to contend for top honours. Being one of the top five all-time scorers in league history, Bipin Singh will be a player expected to have multiple offers in January.
2. SivaSakthi Narayanan (Bengaluru FC)
The young Bengaluru FC striker has had a tough time in the ISL this season. However, he has shown in the past the ability to consistently impress with his clinical finishing and tireless work rate on the field. With players like Pedro Mendez, Jorge Pereyra-Diaz and Vinith Venkatesh ahead in the pecking order, Narayanan will have been on the lookout for newer pastures.
Clubs looking to bolster their attacking options will surely keep an eye on the Bengaluru striker’s availability in January and reignite his once-promising potential.
1. Jithin MS (NorthEast United FC)
The versatile NorthEast United FC winger known for his speed and agility will be a crucial asset to any side. He has had a breakout season under coach Pedro Benali and his ability to break defensive lines makes him a very valuable asset for any team.
His flair and precision make him one of the most exciting players potentially available for a pre-contract agreement for any club looking for an impact player. Jithin is expected to be quite high on wishlist of multiple top clubs.
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