Mumbai City FC has acquired the services of defender Sanjeev Stalin from Kerala Blasters FC ahead of the ninth season of the Hero Indian Super League. The club announced the news on their social media handles on Thursday.

Stalin kickstarted his career with Chandigarh Football Academy. Subsequently, he made his debut in the senior set-up back in 2017 as he played for the Indian Arrows. Sanjeev played 28 matches over three seasons for Indian Arrows.

The youngster has impressed one and all with his ability to score from the set-pieces. Furthermore, Stalin has featured for India Under-17 and Under-19 teams and also played for the national team in the 2017 Under-17 Fifa World Cup, where India came up with an impressive show.

“It’s a big step for me to join Mumbai City at this stage of my career but it’s one that I am confident about. When the opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in India came knocking, I knew I had to grab it with both hands. I am looking forward to learning from my peers, seniors and coach Des Buckingham,” said Stalin after putting pen to paper.

“I also would like to thank the Mumbai City management for showing faith in me and providing me with this wonderful opportunity and I cannot wait to get started and repay the trust put in me by the club and the fans,” he added.

Meanwhile, Stalin made his debut for Kerala Blasters FC in Durand Cup. The 21-year-old from Bengaluru played eight matches for the Tuskers in the previous season of the Hero ISL.

“Sanjeev is certainly one of the most exciting talents in the country. He possesses excellent qualities and can add a lot to our squad. At just 21, he’s not only played at the highest level in India but has the invaluable experience of playing in Europe as well. We think Sanjeev can go on to become an important player, not just for Mumbai City but for the national setup as well and I wish him the very best,” said Buckingham after completing the signing.