In a move that could change the complexion of the I-League relegation battle, rock-bottom side Rangdajied United are on the brink of securing a loan deal for Ranti Martins from United SC. The deal will be till the end of the campaign.

Sportskeeda reported earlier today that Rangdajied United are one of the three clubs interested in Ranti, who wants to leave United SC due to their ongoing financial problems. Advanced talks have now been held between the player and the Shillong club and the deal is expected to be completed later today.

United SC have until Saturday night to find a replacement while Rangdajied are expected to released Brazilian forward Edmar Figueira, whose vacant foreigner slot Ranti will fill.

“Talks are still in progress. Hopefully everything will be done today because the deadline is tomorrow. We will release Edmar,” a Rangdajied United club official told Sportskeeda a little while back.

It was learnt that Ranti’s family will remain in Kolkata as his children are currently studying there. The Nigerian has finished as the I-League’s top scorer in the last three seasons but has only managed four in 15 matches this term.

But his experience and undoubted class could inspire the young squad of I-League debutants Rangdajied United, who also lost Indian forward Manandeep Singh to a season-ending injury during the Federation Cup.

Ranti will become the fourth winter signing of Rangdajied, who have nine more games to beat the drop, after goalkeeper TP Rehneesh and experienced midfielders Steven Dias and Sushanth Matthew.

The move won’t be completed in time for Rangdajied’s away match against Dempo on Saturday but Ranti could make his debut in the north-east club’s home clash with Bengaluru FC on March 1.