In a significant development, Indian Super League (ISL) side Odisha FC is set to sign Shillong Lajong’s first-choice goalkeeper, Manas Dubey, on a multi-year deal, Field Vision can exclusively confirm. The 23-year-old joined the Meghalaya-based I-League side ahead of the Durand Cup this season and quickly made a name for himself with his stellar performances.
Dubey was a revelation throughout the tournament, but his standout display against East Bengal in the quarter-finals earned him widespread acclaim. His shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure caught the attention of ISL clubs, with Odisha FC securing his signature.
Read our interview with Shillong Lajong head coach here: Coach José Hevia’s return to Shillong Lajong FC: A Tale of Passion, Progress, and Purpose
A source with knowledge of the situation informed FV that Manas is eager to move to the Indian Super League and Odisha FC agreed to pay a release clause ranging in 7 figure mark. The club made efforts to retain the young talent but the chance to play in the top division was too tempting to refuse, leading to his imminent departure.
However, the source added, “Manas wishes to move to ISL and the club (Odisha FC) has agreed to pay the release clause. The club persuaded him to stay, but the offer was too overwhelming for the youngster to say no to.”
As stated earlier Odisha FC’s offer proved too enticing for Dubey to turn down and the East coast club sees him as a long-term investment, and his addition strengthens their goalkeeping department.
In the I-League, Manas has played a role of a rotating goalkeeping with Shillong Lajong head coach Jose Hevia giving chances to all 3 goalkeepers available at his disposal. In their win against Aizawl today, Manas featured on the bench on his last appearance as a Shillong Lajong player.
Meanwhile, Shillong Lajong find themselves 5th in the I-League table with 16 points in 11 games. Whereas, Sergio Lobera’s Odisha FC are looking to break into playoffs spots with 7 games of regular season to go for the Juggernauts.
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