Phnom Penh, May 28:

Phnom Penh Empire, the first Division Cambodian club, have shown interests in Nepali international goalkeeper Ritesh Thapa.

Ritesh impressed the club, which lie third in the domestic league, after his performance in the recently concluded AFC Challenge Cup qualifying tournament here. Chief Executive of the club, previously known as Hello United, Tan Lekhena said they wanted him (Ritesh) to play for their club. “We lack good goalkeepers and would like Thapa to play for us,” said Lekhena. Nepal qualified for the AFC Challenge Cup after winning both their Group D matches against Cambodia and Macau.

The Nepal Police goalkeer said that he would accept the proposal if the club pays him $1,000 per month. “I will have to discuss the matter with the club,” said the chief executive after hearing Thapa’s demand. However, Thapa’s chances of playing in the Cambodian league in near future is very slim due to his national team duty as Nepal are preparing for the SAFF Championship to begin next week in Maldives. He will also represent Nepal Police Club in the AFC President’s Cup scheduled to kick off on June 22 in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, half of the Nepali team departed for Thailand on Wednesday following minor visa complications. Remaining members of the team will join them in Thailand on Thursday. After few days of stay there, Nepal will leave for Maldives for the SAFF Championship.