After weeks of intense negotiations and legal wrangling, Indian international defender Anwar Ali has officially joined East Bengal from Delhi FC on a five-year deal. The transfer, completed for a record fee of Rs 2.5 crores, makes Ali one of the highest-paid players in Indian football.
The path to this transfer was anything but smooth. It began with Ali’s decision to unilaterally terminate his four-year loan agreement with Mohun Bagan Super Giant just one year into the contract. This unexpected move set off a legal battle, with Mohun Bagan asserting their contractual rights over the player and challenging Ali’s departure.
Ali’s transfer hinged on obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Players’ Status Committee (PSC). The PSC initially deemed Ali’s contract termination unjustified but ultimately granted the NOC on August 10, 2024, allowing him to join East Bengal. Despite this decision, the PSC will revisit the case on August 22 to issue a final ruling, potentially impacting Ali’s future at East Bengal.
The transfer fee of Rs 2.5 crores, paid by East Bengal to Delhi FC, is a record for Indian football and reflects Ali’s rising status in the sport. “Anwar Ali joined East Bengal in a record move. East Bengal paid Delhi FC Rs 2.5 crores as a transfer fee, making Ali one of the highest-paid players in Indian football,” a source privy to the information was quoted as saying by Khel Now.
The transfer agreement between Anwar Ali, East Bengal, and Delhi FC includes a unique clause regarding potential fines. Should any fines arise from the circumstances of Ali’s transfer, they will be shared equally between Ali and East Bengal. Delhi FC is exempt from financial liability but has committed to supporting Ali and East Bengal in any legal proceedings.
The agreement, signed on July 10, 2024, contains a specific clause outlining this arrangement. “In case there is any fine imposed on the player due to this transfer, the buying club and the player will be liable for the same in the ratio of 50:50. However, the selling club will provide every assistance and cooperation in defending any proceedings and appeals arising from or in connection with adjudication and imposition of such fine,” the source told Khel Now.
East Bengal fans are eagerly anticipating Ali’s debut, with high hopes that he will bolster their defense. While some hoped to see him in action during the AFC Champions League Two preliminary tie, it appears too soon for Ali to make his competitive debut. The club will soon make a decision regarding his registration for the upcoming Durand Cup 2024.
