Mohun Bagan are all set to join hands with a new partner in the new year.

A source claimed that Indian Super League (ISL) franchise ATK is likely to merge with the century-old club. But a merger is not the only possibility. Chances of CESC, ATK’s principal sponsor, being an investor in Bagan are also there.

Neither Bagan nor ATK was willing to comment. In all likelihood, a public announcement would be made before the I-League Derby between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal on January 19.

But people in the know said issues like the team’s name after the merger, the colours of the home and away jerseys have almost been finalised. It was also learnt that there would at least be six members, split equally between Bagan and ATK, in the board of directors of the newly formed entity after the tie-up.

Needless to say that Bagan are likely to take part in the ISL from the next season.

Though nothing much came out officially, Bagan and ATK had been in discussions for a partnership for more than a year. Few months ago, East Bengal also had talks with ATK for a possible partnership. However, they could not agree on various issues. Following that fall out, Bagan and ATK resumed their meetings for a collaboration.

According to a source, Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the body which runs the ISL, has also agreed to the partnership between Bagan and ATK. East Bengal’s relation with their current investor Quess Corp is on a decline and they too are in the lookout for a new partner.

According to AIFF’s plans, the ISL will become the top-tier league of the country with the I-League being No.2. It is only logical that Bagan and East Bengal, who command huge fan bases, are part of the top league. The FSDL would also want so.