ISL 2017/18: FC Pune City linked with move for Austria international Marko Stankovic

What's the story?

FC Pune City could be all set to add another foreign star to their ranks in the form of Austrian midfielder Marko Stankovic, if reports in the Austrian media are to be believed. Currently playing his trade for Austrian second division club SV Ried, the 31-year-old is expected to arrive in India soon to complete the transfer.

The Stallions already have a total of eight players in their squad but an official from the club confirmed that no player will be dropped. He said, "ISL rules allow us to sign more foreigners after playing 10 games in the league."

However, the official did not confirm Stankovic's transfer but indicated that a foreign signing could be on the cards in the near future.

In case you didn't know...

FC Pune City, after a strong start to the first of the league phase, currently sit in third place on the ISL table with five wins, four losses and a solitary draw in the 10 games they have played.

The heart of the matter

Stankovic has played for a number of Austrian clubs in his career, including four seasons with Austria Wien, where he won one league title, featured in the Europa League for two editions and also played one season in the UEFA Champions League in 2013-14.

If the move falls through, the midfielder will be reunited with an old acquaintance in the form of Pune manager Ranko Popovic, with both having spent a number of years at SK Sturm Graz, another top-division Austrian side.

Additionally, Stankovic also has one senior international cap to his name, which he won all the way back in 2008.

What's next?

A statement from the club confirming the signing can be expected in the near future. As far as the team is concerned, they face defending champions ATK in their next match on Saturday.

Author's take

The possible joining of a former Austria international and Champions League participant is good news for the Pune fans and he can be expected to make a major impact on the pitch.