ISL 2017/18: NorthEast United FC eyeing Delhi Dynamos' Mirabaje as possible replacement for Marcinho

It has been a rather disappointing season for NorthEast United FC, and their manager Avram Grant is looking to rebuild their squad for the upcoming campaign.

Despite a mid-season managerial change, the Highlanders have not been able to improve their results, and eventually finished bottom of the league. The poor showing in the ISL was followed by yet another disappointment, as they failed to make it to the main draw of the Super Cup, where they were knocked out by I-League side Gokulam Kerala in the qualifiers.

Now, manager Avram Grant has set his sights on retaining his major players for the upcoming season. Brazilian playmaker Marcinho, who has been one of the few positives for NEUFC this season, is top priority on Grant's list for a contract extension, it has been learnt by Sportskeeda.

However, those close to the player believe that he is not too keen on continuing at the Guwahati-based club, and is looking for opportunities elsewhere.

With Marcinho's contract situation still not clear, the club is on the lookout for other foreigners who can play in a similar position. As a possible replacement for the Brazilian, the Highlanders coaching staff has also marked out Delhi Dynamos' Uruguayan midfielder Matias Mirabaje, it has been learnt.

Delhi's season has also been much like that of NorthEast, as they failed to qualify for the ISL semifinals, and then were knocked out in the Super Cup qualifiers by I-League side Churchill Brothers, who have been relegated this season.

Mirabaje, though, has been one of their best players, controlling a midfield that likes to keep possession of the ball and play it out from the back.

However, this entire merry-go-round of transfers can only take place if Marcinho decides not to stay at NorthEast next season.