Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have reportedly shown serious interest in signing Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals (RR) and are ready to part with two players in exchange. According to a report in Anandabazar Patrika, KKR have put forward the names of Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Ramandeep Singh as part of a possible trade deal. However, the franchise is keen on giving away only one of them instead of both.
The trade market in the Indian Premier League (IPL) allows two types of transactions, either through an all-cash deal or via player swaps, with the difference being adjusted in cash. In Samson’s case, his current contract value at Rajasthan is INR 18 crore. By comparison, Raghuvanshi is valued at INR 3 crore, while Ramandeep’s salary stands at INR 4 crore. If KKR decide to trade only one player, they will have to add INR 15 or 14 crore respectively to complete the deal.
These developments come at a time when Sanju Samson has reportedly asked Rajasthan Royals to consider releasing him before the IPL 2026 auction. The 30-year-old has been the face of the Jaipur-based team for years but several reports suggest he now wants to explore a fresh chapter in his IPL career.
Also read: IPL 2026: Sanju Samson Formally Requests Rajasthan Royals To Trade Or Release Him - Reports
Why KKR Want Sanju Samson?
For Kolkata, Samson could solve several issues in one go. The franchise struggled under Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership last season and have lacked a long-term captaincy option. He also fills KKR's requirement of a reliable wicketkeeper-batter.
Samson would also give KKR flexibility in their batting order. On paper, he looks like the perfect fit for KKR.
However, the trade won’t be straightforward. Rajasthan Royals are reluctant to let go of their most experienced player unless they receive fair value in return. Their asking price remains high and whether KKR are willing to meet those terms is still uncertain.
CSK’s Parallel Interest in Sanju Samson
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are also in the race. The five-time champions are believed to be looking at Samson as a long-term successor to MS Dhoni, who is expected to retire sooner than later. But negotiations between CSK and RR have hit a dead end.
As per reports, RR want one of Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja or Shivam Dube in exchange. CSK are not ready to part with any of these key players. The situation has created a standoff.
If no agreement is reached, Samson could even end up in the auction pool.
Also read: IPL 2026: Multiple Franchises Including CSK Interested In Sanju Samson: Reports
