Mumbai City FC have bolstered their attacking options with the recruitment of Brazilian Rafael Bastos for the upcoming season of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL). The attacking midfielder joins the Islanders on a one-year deal.

Bastos spent the initial years of his career playing for a host of clubs in Brazil and Portugal before making a name for himself at CFR Cluj under Mumbai’s recently appointed head coach Jorge Costa. Under the Portuguese tactician, Bastos established himself as a prominent figure for the side, especially when the Romanian club clinched the league title during the 2011-12 season. The midfielder was also part of Cluj’s impressive run in the UEFA Champions League in the 2012-13 campaign.

After his stint with CFR Cluj, Bastos represented a few other sides in Asia, including Al Nassr (2013-14), and Buriram United (2017-18) before joining signing for the Hero ISL club. The Brazilian can slot in behind the striker as well as on the wings and can pose a threat with his set-piece delivery.

His versatility across the forward line will be crucial to Mumbai City FC as they bid to pose a stern challenge when the new season gets underway. Bastos becomes Costa’s third signing since taking office. The Islanders have made serious inroads in the summer transfer window and it would take a brave man to bet against them overcoming their setbacks from the previous campaign.